Skin and surface disinfectant compositions containing botanicals

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a skin or surface disinfectant composition with broad spectrum antimicrobial activity comprising one or more essential oil (and/or one or more component thereof) and one or more fruit acid. The compositions of the invention may be used as non-toxic alternatives to conventional disinfectants or may be added to other antimicrobial agents to enhance their activity. The invention provides effective alternatives to harsher products which may be particularly useful in personal care and household products and where children and/or pet exposure may be a concern.

PRIORITY CLAIMED

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/134,918, filed Jun. 6, 2008 which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/016,788, filed Jan. 18, 2008, whichclaims priority benefits to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.60/953,654, filed Aug. 2, 2007, and also claims priority to U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/945,288, filed Jun. 20, 2007, all ofwhich are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties herein.

INTRODUCTION

The present invention relates to a skin or surface disinfectantcomposition with broad spectrum antimicrobial activity comprising one ormore essential oil (and/or one or more component thereof) and one ormore fruit acid. The compositions of the invention may be used asnon-toxic alternatives to conventional disinfectants or may be combinedwith other antimicrobial agents to enhance their activity. The inventionprovides effective alternatives to harsher products, and may beparticularly useful in personal care and household product applicationsand where children and/or pet exposure may be a concern.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Essential oils are volatile oils obtained from plant or animal sourcesand are composed of complex mixtures of several constituents, such asmonoterpenes and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, monoterpene andsesquiterpene alcohols, esters, ethers, aldehydes, ketones, oxides andthe like. These essential oils and their isolated constituents arefrequently utilized as fragrance and flavor agents, and have been widelyused in folk medicine for wound healing properties.

Scientific research has corroborated the beneficial effects of essentialoils. Essential oils of eucalyptus have been found to “possess centraland peripheral analgesic effects as well as neutrophil-dependent andindependent anti-inflammatory activities” (Silva et al., 2003, J.Ethnopharmacol. 89(2-3); 277-283), and similar activity has beenobserved in essential oils from Lavandula angustifolia (Hajhashemi etal., 2003, J. Ethnopharmacol. 89(1):67-71). Essential oils have beendemonstrated to exhibit antibacterial (Bezic et al., 2003, Phytother.Res. 17(9):1037-1040; Goren et al., 2003, Z. Naturforsch.58(9-10):687-690; de Abreu Gonzaga et al., 2003, Planta Med.69(8):773-775; Valero and Salmera, 2003, Int. J. Food Microbiol.85(1-2): 73-81) and antifungal (Paranagama et al., 2003, Lett. Appl.Microbiol. 37(1):86-90; Shin, 2003, Arch. Pharm. Res. 26(5):389-393;Velluti et al., 2003, Int. J. Food Microbiol. 89:145-154) activities.Virucidal activity of essential oils has also been observed, includingdirect virucidal effects against Herpes simplex viruses types 1 and 2(Garcia et al., Phytother. Res. 17(9):1073-1075; Minami et al., 2003,Microbial Immunol. 47(a):681-684; Schuhmacher et al., 2003,Phytomedicine 10:504-510).

United States Patent Application Publication No. 20050048139 by Modak etal., published Mar. 3, 2005, relates to topical compositions comprisingan emollient solvent and an essential oil, which may further compriseadditional additives, among which citric acid, glycolic acid and lacticacid are cited. It does not recognize the synergistic activity betweenessential oils and fruit acids nor does it disclose the concentrationsof fruit acids to be used to provide a synergistic effect.

United States Patent Application Publication No. 20050019431 by Modak etal., published Jan. 27, 2005, relates to compositions comprising aquaternary ammonium compound and an essential oil (or active componentthereof).

A number of patent applications relate to compositions comprising anessential oil (or component thereof) where zinc salts are added toinhibit irritation associated with essential oils. Examples of suchpatent applications include United States Patent Application PublicationNo. 20040102429 by Modak et al., published May 27, 2004, and UnitedStates Patent Application Publication No. 20050238602 by Modak et al.,published Oct. 27, 2005.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,858,317 by Aamodt et al., issued Feb. 22, 2005, relatesto methods for protecting wood from mold and sapstaining fungi whichemploy a non-toxic mold inhibitor which may be a plant extract such asan essential oil.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,100,652 by Kross et al., issued Mar. 31, 1992, relatesto low concentration chlorous-acid-generating oral hygiene compositionswhich may comprise an essential oil as a flavoring agent.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,310,546 by Douglas, issued May 10, 1994, relates to amouth rinse preparation comprising hydrogen peroxide, zinc chloride,sodium citrate, sodium lauryl sulfate, citric acid and ethanol andoptionally an essential oil which is a denaturing agent.

BiON offers several skin care products comprising citric acid,botanicals, and other agents for topical use (San Diego, Calif., US).

Johnson et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 6,319,958 and US20020165130) relates tothe use of sesquiterpenoids to promote uptake of exogenous antimicrobialcompounds. Similarly, a related article discloses the use ofsesquiterpenoids, such as nerolidol, famesol, bisabolol and apritone, inenhancing bacterial permeability and susceptibility to exogenousantimicrobial compounds, suggesting that sesquiterpenoids have anon-specific and general effect (Brehm-Stecher et al. 2003,Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 47(10):3357-3360). In particular,Brehm-Stecher et al. report that nerolidol, famesol, bisabolol andapritone enhanced the susceptibility of S. aureus to the antibioticserythromycin, gentamicin, vancomycin, ciprofloxacin, clindamycin, andtetracycline.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,867,898 by Spaulding et al., issued Sep. 19, 1989,relates to a liquid hard surface cleaner comprising pine oil andorganic, oil-soluble acids at a pH from 0 to 6.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,753,305 by Raso and Caselli, issued Jun. 22, 2004,relates to a hard surface disinfectant comprising up to 20 percent ofcinnamon oil or a component thereof, 0.01-5 percent of an organic acid,and optionally an additional essential oil.

International Patent Application Publication No. WO2007077573 byMukhopadhyay, published Jul. 12, 2007, relates to antimicrobialcompositions comprising an antimicrobial agent, such as triclosan, and afunctionalized hydrocarbon, where the functionalized hydrocarbon can bean essential oil, and/or a solvent.

There is a continuing desire for an antimicrobial composition that isnon-irritating, safe, and effective for repeated use in variousprofessional and non-professional settings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a skin or surface disinfectantcomposition with broad spectrum antimicrobial activity comprising one ormore essential oil (and/or one or more component—i.e., an “IndividualConstituent” or “IC”—thereof) and one or more fruit acid. It is based,at least in part, on the discovery that a combination of an essentialoil or component thereof together with a fruit acid can confer superiorantimicrobial properties on personal care, veterinary, as well ashousehold products. In preferred, non-limiting embodiments, thecompositions of the invention further comprise up to about 20 percentalcohol, which facilitates the solubilization of the essentialoil(s)/IC(s) and fruit acid. Certain embodiments are also based, atleast in part, on the discovery that further addition of an alkanediol,particularly a bifunctional fatty alcohol, enhances antimicrobialactivity still more.

In various non-limiting embodiments, the present invention may beutilized in personal care products such as soaps, scrubs, cosmetics,creams and lotions and veterinary products such as pet shampoos and petcleansing wipes. In other non-limiting embodiments, the presentinvention may be utilized in household products such as general purposecleaning fluids, spray cleaners, laundry detergents, food washes, etc.

The compositions of the invention may be used as non-toxic alternativesto conventional disinfectants or may be added to other antimicrobialagents to enhance their activity. The invention provides effectivealternatives to harsher products which may be particularly useful inpersonal care and household products and where children and/or petexposure may be a concern.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

For clarity of description, and not by way of limitation, the detaileddescription of the invention is divided into the following subsections:

(1) essential oils;

(2) fruit acids;

(3) alkanediols;

(4) combinations of essential oils/ICs and fruit acids;

(5) compositions comprising alkanediols;

(6) personal care products;

(7) veterinary products; and

(8) household/industrial products.

4.1 Essential Oils

Essential oils (“EOs”), as defined herein, are volatile oils obtainedfrom plant or animal sources, or their synthetic equivalents, and arecomposed of complex mixtures of several constituents as monoterpenes andsesquiterpene hydrocarbons, monoterpene and sesquiterpene alcohols,esters, ethers, aldehydes, ketones, oxides and the like. Examples of EOsinclude, but are not limited to, cinnamon oil, basil oil, bergamot oil,clary sage oil, ylang-ylang oil, neroli oil, sandalwood oil,frankincense oil, ginger oil, peppermint oil, lavender oil, jasmineabsolute, geranium oil bourbon, spearmint oil, clove oil, patchouli oil,rosemary oil, rosewood oil, sandalwood oil, tea tree oil, vanilla oil,lemongrass oil, cedarwood oil, balsam oils, tangerine oil, Hinoki oil,Hiba oil, ginkgo oil, eucalyptus oil, lemon oil, orange oil, and sweetorange oil. In preferred non-limiting embodiments of the invention, theEO is selected from one or more EO from the group consisting of cinnamonoil (bark or leaf), lemongrass oil, citronella oil, basil oil, andorange oil.

Individual constituents (“ICs”) of essential oils may be isolated fromthe oil (natural) or entirely or partially synthetic, and include, butare not limited to, 1-citronellol, a-amylcinnamaldehyde, lyral,geraniol, famesol, hydroxycitronellal, isoeugenol, eugenol, eucalyptol,linalool, citral, thymol, limonene and menthol. Further examples of ICsinclude sesquiterpenoid compounds, which may be the active compounds inthe essential oils. Sesquiterpenoid compounds, containing 15 carbons,are formed biosynthetically from three 5-carbon isoprene units.Sesquiterpenoid compounds include, but are not limited to, farnesol,nerolidol, bisabolol, apritone, chamazulene, santalol, zingiberol,carotol, and caryophyllen. Mixtures of one or more EO, one or more IC,and one or more EO as well as one or more IC, are encompassed by thepresent invention. In specific non-limiting embodiments of theinvention, an IC is selected from the (non-limiting) group consisting ofcamphor, alpha-pinene, constituents of cinnamon leaf oil such ascinnamaldehyde, cinnamylacetic ester, cinnamic acid, ethyl cinnamate,methyl chavicol, linalool, beta-caryophyllene, and eugenol; constituentsof lemongrass oil such as d-limonene, geranyl acetate, nerol, geraniol,citral, and/or myrcene; constituents of citronella oil such as geraniol,citronellol, citronellal, geranyl acetate, limonene, methyl isoueugenol,and/or elemol; components of basil oil such as camphor, limonene, and/orβ-selinene; and constituents of orange oil such as a-pinene, sabinene,myrcene, limonene, linalool, citronellal, neral and/or geranial.

An EO or IC for use in the invention may be obtained from its naturalsource or may be chemically synthesized.

4.2 Fruit Acids

Fruit acids which may be used according to the invention include but arenot limited to citric acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid,tartaric acid and acetic acid. In preferred non-limiting embodiments ofthe invention, the fruit acid is citric acid.

A fruit acid for use in the invention may be obtained from its naturalsource or may be chemically synthesized.

4.3 Alkanediols

In non-limiting embodiments, bifunctional alcohols which may be usedaccording to the present invention are alkanediols. Suitable alkanediolsinclude, but are not limited to, dodecanediol, decanediol, nonanediol,octanediol, heptanediol, hexanediol and pentanediol.

In particular non-limiting embodiments, the alkanediols have a carbonbackbone of between 9 and 25 carbon atoms, including but not limited to1,9 Nonanediol, 1,2-Decanediol, 1,10-Decanediol, 1,11-Undecanediol,1,2-Dodecanediol, 1,12 Dodecanediol, Cyclododecanediol,1,13-Tridecanediol, 1,2-Tetradecanediol, 1,14-Tetradecanediol,1,15-Pentadecanediol, 1,16-Hexadecanediol, 1,17-Heptadecanediol,1,18-Octadecanediol, 1,19-Nonadecanediol, 1,20-Eicosanediol,1,21-Heneicosanediol, 1,22-Docosanediol, 1,23-Tricosanediol,1,24-Tetracosanediol, 1,25-Pentacosanediol. The preferred alkanediolsare 1,2-Decanediol, 1,10-Decanediol, 1,2-Dodecanediol,1,12-Dodecanediol, Cyclododecanediol, 1,13-Tridecanediol,1,2-Tetradecanediol, 1,14-Tetradecanediol and the most preferredalkanediols are 1,2-Decanediol, 1,2-Dodecanediol and1,2-Tetradecanediol.

4.4 Combinations of Essential Oils/ICs and Fruit Acids

The present invention provides for compositions comprising a combinationof one or more essential oil (and/or one or more IC thereof) and one ormore fruit acid. Preferably, this combination produces a synergisticanti-microbial effect against at least one microbe selected from thegroup consisting of Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa,Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant S. aureus, and Candidaalbicans (“synergistic” means that the antimicrobial effect of thecombination is greater than the sum of the antimicrobial effects of theindividual components).

In particular, non-limiting embodiments of the invention, thecompositions comprise between about 0.1 and 1.0 percent (weight/weight)(“w/w”) of one or more essential oils, one or more ICs, or a combinationthereof. Where a combination is used, the total of essential oil(s)and/or IC(s) is between about 0.1 and 1.0 percent (weight/weight) andbetween about 0.125 and 2.0 percent (weight/weight) of one or more fruitacid (where more than one fruit acid is used, the total amount of fruitacids present is between about 0.125 and 2.0 percent (weight/weight).“About” as used in this document means plus or minus 20 percent of therecited value, so that, for example, “between about 0.125 and 1.0percent” means a range between 0.125±0.025 and 1.0±0.2.

In particular, non-limiting embodiments, the present invention providesfor concentrates of essential oil/IC/fruit acid combinations which areconcentrated and may be diluted to provide a composition for personal,household, or industrial use. In such concentrates, the ratio of fruitacid to essential oil(s)/IC(s) (weight/weight) is between about 1 and16, for example, but not by way of limitation, fruit acid(s):EO(s)/IC(s) of between about 1:1 to 10:1, inclusive (weight/weight).

The present invention further provides for methods of providing anantimicrobial effect to a surface comprising applying, to the surface,an effective amount of a composition as described herein. Anantimicrobial effect means killing and/or inhibiting thegrowth/proliferation of a microbe. In particular non-limitingembodiments of the invention, the microbe is selected from the groupconsisting of from the group consisting of Escherichia coli, Pseudomonasaeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant S. aureus, andCandida albicans. In specific non-limiting embodiments, the compositionis exposed to the surface for at least 20 seconds, at least 30 seconds,or at least 60 seconds, or at least 5 minutes or at least 10 minutes. Invarious non-limiting embodiments, the surface may be the a skin ormucosal surface, a household surface (e.g., a surface of a countertop,table sink, toilet, wall, floor, appliance, window, shower surface, rug,upholstery, fabric, etc.) or an industrial surface (e.g., a surface of acountertop, table sink, toilet, wall, floor, appliance, window, showersurface, rug, upholstery, fabric, etc.).

In a first set of specific, non-limiting embodiments, the presentinvention provides for a composition comprising a component selectedfrom the group consisting of cinnamon oil, cinnamaldehyde, eugenol,cinnamylacetic ester, and cinnamic acid, at a concentration of betweenabout 0.1 and 1.2 percent (weight/weight) or between about 0.2 and 0.6percent (weight/weight), as well as citric acid at a concentration ofbetween about 0.5 and 1.5 percent (weight/weight), optionally furthercomprising triclosan at a concentration of between about 0.05 and 3percent (weight/weight) or between about 0.05 and 0.1 percent(weight/weight) (this range, and all ranges herein, inclusive). Incertain embodiments, the EO/IC is not cinnamon oil or pine oil or an ICthereof.

In a second set of non-limiting embodiments, the present inventionprovides for compositions comprising a EO/IC mixture comprising two ormore EO or IC from the group consisting of cinnamon oil or an ICthereof, lemongrass oil and/or an IC thereof, orange oil and/or an ICthereof, basil oil and/or an IC thereof, and citronella oil and/or an ICthereof, at a total EO/IC concentration of between about 0.1 and 1percent (weight/weight); together with one or more fruit acid(preferably citric acid), at a total fruit acid concentration of betweenabout 0.125 and 2 percent (weight/weight); and an alcohol (preferablyethanol at a concentration of between about 5-20 percent(weight/weight), optionally further comprising triclosan at aconcentration of between about 0.05 and 3 percent (weight/weight) orbetween about 0.05 and 0.1 percent (weight/weight), where the ratio ofEO/IC to fruit acid is between about 1:1 to about 1:10. In certainembodiments, the EO/IC is not cinnamon oil or pine oil or an IC thereof.

In a third set of non-limiting embodiments, the present inventionprovides for compositions comprising a EO/IC mixture comprisinglemongrass oil and/or an IC thereof, orange oil and/or an IC thereof,and optionally one or more additional EO and/or IC, at a total EO/ICconcentration of between about 0.1 and 1 percent (weight/weight);together with one or more fruit acid (preferably citric acid), at atotal fruit acid concentration of between about 0.125 and 2 percent; andan alcohol (preferably ethanol) at a concentration of between about 5-20percent (weight/weight), optionally further comprising triclosan at aconcentration of between about 0.05 and 1 percent (weight/weight) orbetween about 0.05 and 0.3 percent (weight/weight), where the ratio ofEO/IC to fruit acid is between about 1:1 to about 1:10.

4.5 Compositions Comprising Alkanediols

In non-limiting embodiments, the present invention provides forcompositions comprising an essential oil, a fruit acid, an alcohol whichis not an alkanediol, and an alkanediol. In particular, non-limitingembodiments, the carbon backbone of the alkanediol has between 9 and 25carbon atoms.

In particular non-limiting embodiments, the present invention providesfor compositions comprising (i) between about 0.2 and 0.7 percent(weight/weight) of one or more essential oil as set forth above andpreferably selected from the group consisting of lemongrass, cinnamonoil, citronella oil, basil oil, orange oil and combinations thereof;(ii) a non-alkanediol alcohol solvent at a concentration between about0.5 and 20 percent (weight/weight); (iii) an amount of alkanediol whichincreases the antimicrobial effect, for example at a concentrationbetween about 0.3 and 1.0 percent (weight/weight), and (iv) one or morefruit acid at a total concentration between about 0.125 and 2.0 percent(weight/weight).

The preferred essential oils are the ones that show significantenhancement of antimicrobial activity in combination with citric acid.These oils include one or more selected from lemongrass oil, cinnamonoil, basil oil and citronella oil, preferably at a total concentrationof between about 0.2 and 0.7 percent (weight/weight), with the optionalfurther addition of orange oil to reduce the pungent odor of the otheressential oils and to provide a fragrance which is mild and pleasant.Fruit acids which may be used in such compositions include citric acidor lactic acid (preferably citric acid) at a concentration between about0.5 and 1.0 percent (weight/weight).

Preferred but non-limiting examples of non-alkanediol alcohols forsolubilization of both essential oils and citric acid are aliphaticalcohols having carbon atoms about 1 to 8 such as methanol, ethanol,n-propanol, isopropyl alcohol, 2-methyl-2 propanol, hexanol, orcombinations thereof, at a concentration of between about 5 and 20percent (weight/weight). Aromatic alcohols, for example, but not by wayof limitation, phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol, 1-phenoxy-2propanol,and/or phenethyl alcohol, for example at a concentration of betweenabout 0.5 and 5 percent (weight/weight), may also optionally be used incombination with aliphatic alcohols. A further solvent which optionallymay be comprised in a composition of the invention is isopropylmyristate. Most preferred aliphatic alcohols include ethanol, denaturedalcohol (SDA 40B and SDA3C) and isopropanol. Most preferred aromaticalcohols include phenoxyethanol and phenethanol.

Compositions comprising lemongrass or cinnamon oils (0.2-0.5 percent)and orange oil (0.1-0.2 percent) exhibit a pleasant and mild fragrance.Furthermore these oils even at these lower concentrations have beenobserved to provide superior antibacterial activity (more than 3 logreduction when challenged with 10⁸ colony forming unit of agram-positive pathogen (S. aureus) in combination with a secondaryalcohol (0.3-1.0%) and alcohol (5-20%).

In specific, non-limiting embodiments, the present invention providesfor a skin or surface disinfectant composition comprising the essentialoil lemongrass (0.3-0.5 percent (weight/weight)), orange oil (0.1-0.2percent (weight/weight)), citric acid (0.5-2.0 percent (weight/weight)),SDA 40B alcohol (5-20 percent (weight/weight)) and 1,2 decanediol(0.3-1.0 percent (weight/weight)).

Preferably the pH of personal care products is in the range of about3.5-5.0, and more preferably in the range of about 4-4.7.

In addition to the above ingredients, a composition of the invention mayoptionally further comprise an emollient to further reduce irritation,such as, but not limited to, a fatty alcohol, behentrimoniummethosulfate-cetyl alcohol (Incroquat TMS), or a polyol such asglycerol, propylene glycol, diglycerol, ethylene glycol, diethyleneglycol, triethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol,hexylene glycol, butylene glycol, etc.

Essential oils are volatile and therefore it is desirable that theantimicrobial composition containing essential oils is incorporated in asuitable base in which it is stable at higher temperature and over along period of time. Accordingly, a composition of the invention mayoptionally comprise a hydrophilic or hydrophobic gel-forming polymer, afatty acids, a plant oils etc. Suitable hydrophilic gel polymersinclude, but are not limited to, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, cationichydroxyethyl cellulose (UCARE polymers), ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxymethyl cellulose, carboxy methyl cellulose,polyethylene oxide (POLYOX resins), and chitosan pyrrolidone carboxylate(KYTAMER PC), silica gel, carbomerpolymers etc. Suitable hydrophobic gelpolymers include, but are not limited to, silicone polymers, for examplepolydimethylsiloxane polymer (Dow Corning 225 Silicone Fluid),dimethiconol fluid in dimethicone (Dow Corning 1403 Silicone Fluid),cyclomethicone and dimethicone copolyl (Dow Corning 3225C and Q2-5220Silicone Fluid), silicone glycol (BASF 1066 DCG polyol), KSG seriessilicone gels (Shin-etsu), and combinations thereof. Suitable plant oilsinclude, but are not limited to, olive oil, almond oil, avocado oil,basil oil, primrose oil, peanut oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, soybeanoil, and wheat germ oil.

4.6 Personal Care Products

In non-limiting embodiments, the present invention provides for personalcare product compositions comprising a combination of one or moreessential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid, as setforth in section 4.4 or 4.5, above. In preferred, non-limitingembodiments, the amounts of the active agents are such that regularexposure of skin to the personal care product does not produce skinirritation in a normal subject.

Non-limiting examples of personal care products which may utilize theinvention include bar soap, liquid soap (e.g. hand soap), handsanitizer, cleansing wipes, body wash, acne treatment products, shampoo,conditioner, cosmetics (including but not limited to liquid or powderfoundation, liquid or solid eyeliner, mascara, cream eye shadow, tintedpowder, “pancake” type powder to be used dry or moistened, etc.),deodorant, body lotion, hand cream, topical cream, aftershave lotion,skin toner, mouth wash, toothpaste, sunscreen lotion, and baby productssuch as, but not limited to, cleansing wipes, baby shampoo, baby soap,and diaper cream. The present invention may also be applied to woundcare items, such as, but not limited to, wound coverings, bandages,tape, and Steri-Strips, and medical articles such as medical gowns,caps, face masks, shoe-covers, surgical drops, etc.

Personal care compositions according to the invention, in addition toone or more essential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruitacid, may further comprise one or (preferably) more than one componentselected from the group consisting of emollients, stabilizing agents,thickening agents, humectants, antimicrobial agents, neutralizingagents, surfactants, water, silicone polymers, alcohols, and hydrogels,as well as additional components as may be known in the art.Non-limiting examples of such components are set forth below.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, a personal careproduct comprising a combination of one or more essential oil and/or ICtogether with one or more fruit acid may further comprise an emollient,for example PEG 20 almond glycerides, Probutyl DB-10, Glucam P-20,Glucam E-10, Glucam P-10, Glucam E-20, Glucam P-20 distearate,Glycerine, propylene glycol, octoxyglycerine, cetyl acetate, acetylatedlanolin alcohol (e.g., Acetulan), cetyl ether (e.g., PPG-10), myristylether (e.g., PPG-3), hydroxylated milk glycerides (e.g., Cremeral HMG),polyquatemium compounds (e.g., UCARE compounds), copolymers of dimethyldialyl ammonium chloride and acrylic acid (e.g., Merquat), dipropyleneglycol methyl ethers (e.g., DOWANOL DPM, Dow Corning), polypropyleneglycol ethers (e.g., UCON 50-HB-600, Union Carbide) and siliconpolymers. Other suitable emollients may include hydrocarbon-basedemollients such as petrolatum or mineral oil, fatty ester-basedemollients, such as methyl, isopropyl and butyl esters of fatty acidssuch as isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl isostearate,isostearyl isostearate, diisopropyl sebacate, and propylenedipelargonate, 2-ethylhexyl isononoate, 2-ethylhexyl stearate, C₁₂-C₁₆fatty alcohol lactates such as cetyl lactate and lauryl lactate,isopropyl lanolate, 2-ethylhexyl salicylate, cetyl myristate, oleylmyristate, oleyl stearate, oleyl oleate, hexyl laurate, and isohexyllaurate. Additional useful emollients include lanolin, olive oil, cocoabutter, and shea butter.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, a personal careproduct comprising a combination of one or more essential oil and/or ICtogether with one or more fruit acid may further comprise a stabilizingagent consisting of antioxidants, including but not limited to vitamin C(ascorbic acid) and vitamin E (tocopherol), and surfactants, includingbut not limited to Incromine or silicone-based surfactants (MASIL SF-19,BASF).

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, a personal careproduct comprising a combination of one or more essential oil and/or ICtogether with one or more fruit acid may further comprise a thickeningagent such as stearyl alcohol, cationic hydroxy ethyl cellulose (UCAREJR-30), hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose, hydroxy propyl cellulose(Klucel), chitosan pyrrolidone carboxylate (KYTAMER PC), behenylalcohol, zinc stearate, emulsifying waxes, including but not limited toIncroquat and Polawax, an addition polymer of acrylic acid, a resin suchas Carbopol® ETD™ 2020, guar gum, acacia, acrylates/steareth-20methacrylate copolymer, agar, algin, alginic acid, ammonium acrylateco-polymers, ammonium alginate, ammonium chloride, ammonium sulfate,amylopectin, attapulgite, bentonite, C9-15 alcohols, calcium acetate,calcium alginate, calcium carrageenan, calcium chloride, caprylicalcohol, carbomer 910, carbomer 934, carbomer 934P, carbomer 940,carbomer 941, carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, carboxymethylhydroxypropyl guar, carrageenan, cellulose, cellulose gum, cetearylalcohol, cetyl alcohol, corn starch, damar, dextrin, dibenzlidinesorbitol, ethylene dihydrogenated tallowamide, ethylene diolamide,ethylene distearamide, gelatin, guar gum, guar hydroxypropyltrimoniumchloride, hectorite, hyaluronic acid, hydrated silica, hydroxybutylmethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethyl ethylcellulose,hydroxyethyl stearamide-MIPA, isocetyl alcohol, isostearyl alcohol,karaya gum, kelp, lauryl alcohol, locust bean gum, magnesium aluminiumsilicate, magnesium silicate, magnesium trisilicate, methoxyPEG-22/dodecyl glycol copolymer, methylcellulose, microcrystallinecellulose, montmorillonite, myristyl alcohol, oat flour, oleyl alcohol,palm kernel alcohol, pectin, PEG-2M, PEG-SM, polyacrylic acid, polyvinylalcohol, potassium alginate, potassium aluminium polyacrylate, potassiumcarrageenan, potassium chloride, potassium sulfate, potato starch,propylene glycol alginate, sodium acrylate/vinyl alcohol copolymer,sodium carboxymethyl dextran, sodium carrageenan, sodium cellulosesulfate, sodium chloride, sodium polymethacylate, sodiumsilicoaluminate, sodium sulfate, stearalkonium bentotnite, stearalkoniumhectorite, stearyl alcohol, tallow alcohol, TEA-hydrochloride,tragacanth gum, tridecyl alcohol, tromethamine magnesium aluminiumsilicate, wheat flour, wheat starch, xanthan gum, abietyl alcohol,acrylinoleic acid, aluminum behenate, aluminum caprylate, aluminumdilinoleate, aluminum salts, such as distearate, and aluminumisostearates, beeswax, behenamide, butadiene/acrylonitrile copolymer,C29-70 acid, calcium behenate, calcium stearate, candelilla wax,carnauba, ceresin, cholesterol, cholesterol hydroxystearate, coconutalcohol, copal, diglyceryl stearate malate, dihydroabietyl alcohol,dimethyl lauramine oleate, dodecanoic acid/cetearyl alcohol/glycolcopolymer, erucamide, ethylcellulose, glyceryl triacetylhydroxystearate, glyceryl tri-acetyl ricinolate, glycol dibehenate,glycol di-octanoate, glycol distearate, hexanediol distearate,hydrogenated C6-14 olefin polymers, hydrogenated castor oil,hydrogenated cottonseed oil, hydrogenated lard, hydrogenated menhadenoil, hydrogenated palm kernel glycerides, hydrogenated palm kernel oil,hydrogenated palm oil, hydrogenated polyisobutene, hydrogenated soybeanoil, hydrogenated tallow amide, hydrogenated tallow glyceride,hydrogenated vegetable glyceride, hydrogenated vegetable oil, Japan wax,jojoba wax, lanolin alcohol, shea butter, lauramide, methyldehydroabietate, methyl hydrogenated rosinate, methyl rosinate,methylstyrene/vinyltoluene copolymer, microcrystalline wax, montan acidwax, montan wax, myristyleicosanol, myristyloctadecanol,octadecene/maleic anhyrdine copolymer, octyldodecyl stearoyl stearate,oleamide, oleostearine, ouricury wax, oxidized polyethylene, ozokerite,paraffin, pentaerythrityl hydrogenated rosinate, pentaerythrityltetraoctanoate, pentaerythrityl rosinate, pentaerythrityl tetraabietate,pentaerythrityl tetrabehenate, pentaerythrityl tetraoleate,pentaerythrityl tetrastearate, ophthalmic anhydride/Glycerine/glycidyldecanoate copolymer, ophthalmic/trimellitic/glycols copolymer,polybutene, polybutylene terephthalate, polydi pentene, polyethylene,polyisobutene, polyisoprene, polyvinyl butyral, polyvinyl laurate,propylene glycol dicaprylate, propylene glycol dicocoate, propyleneglycol diisononanoate, propylene glycol dilaurate, propylene glycoldipelargonate, propylene glycol distearate, propylene glycoldiundecanoate, PVP/eiconsene copolymer, PVP/hexadecene copolymer, ricebran wax, stearalkonium bentonite, stearalkonium hectorite, stearamide,stearamide DEA-distearate, stearamide DIBA-stearate, stearamideMEA-stearate, stearone, stearyl erucamide, stearyl stearate, stearylstearoyl stearate, synthetic beeswax, synthetic wax, trihydroxystearin,triisononanoin, triisostearin, tri-isostearyl trilinoleate, trilaurin,trilinoleic acid, trilinolein, trimyristin, triolein, tripalmitin,tristearin, zinc laurate, zinc myristate, zinc neodecanoate, zincrosinate, and mixtures thereof.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, a personal careproduct comprising a combination of one or more essential oil and/or ICtogether with one or more fruit acid may further comprise a humectant,such as, for example, Glycerine, 1-2-propylene glycol, dipropyleneglycol, polyethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, or 1,2,6-hexanetriol.

In certain non-limiting embodiments of the invention, essentially theentire antimicrobial effect of the inventive composition is achieved byan antimicrobial composition consisting of one or more essential oiland/or one or more IC, together with a fruit acid and optionally analcohol. In alternative embodiments of the invention, one or moreadditional antimicrobial agent may be comprised, for example, in theamount of between about 0.05 and 2.0 percent (weight/weight), where suchantimicrobial agent may be selected from the group consisting ofiodophors, iodine, benzoic acid, dihydroacetic acid, propionic acid,sorbic acid, methyl paraben, ethyl paraben, propyl paraben, butylparaben, cetrimide, benzalkonium chloride, dequalinium chloride,chlorhexidine, chloroeresol, chloroxylenol, benzyl alcohol, bronopol,chlorbutanol, phenoxyethanol, phenylethyl alcohol, 2,4-dichlorobenzylalcohol, thimerosal, clindamycin, erythromycin, benzoyl peroxide,mupirocin, bacitracin, polymyxin B, neomycin, triclosan,parachlorometaxylene, foscamet, miconazole, fluconazole, itriconazole,ketoconazole, silver sulfadiazine, octoxyglycerine, biguanides such as,but not limited to, chlorhexidine free base, chlorhexidine palmitate,chlorhexidine diphosphanilate, chlorhexidine digluconate, chlorhexidinediacetate, chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, chlorhexidine dichloride,chlorhexidine dihydroiodide, chlorhexidine diperchlorate, chlorhexidinedinitrate, chlorhexidine sulfate, chlorhexidine sulfite, chlorhexidinethiosulfate, chlorhexidine di-acid phosphate, chlorhexidinedifluorophosphate, chlorhexidine diformate, chlorhexidine dipropionate,chlorhexidine di-iodobutyrate, chlorhexidine di-n-valerate,chlorhexidine dicaproate, chlorhexidine malonate, chlorhexidinesuccinate, chlorhexidine malate, chlorhexidine tartrate, chlorhexidinedimonoglycolate, chlorhexidine monodiglycolate, chlorhexidine dilactate,chlorhexidine di-a-hydroxyisobutyrate, chlorhexidine diglucoheptonate,chlorhexidine di-isothionate, chlorhexidine dibenzoate, chlorhexidinedicinnamate, chlorhexidine dimandelate, chlorhexidine di-isophthalate,chlorhexidine di-2-hydroxynapthoate, chlorhexidine embonate, andparahexamethylenebiguanide (“PHMB”).

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, a personal careproduct comprising a combination of one or more essential oil and/or ICtogether with one or more fruit acid may further comprise a neutralizingagent to neutralize carboxyl groups present in one or more othercomponent, such as carboxyl groups in a thickening agent. Suitableneutralizing agents include diisopropylamine and triethanolamine.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, a personal careproduct comprising a combination of one or more essential oil and/or ICtogether with one or more fruit acid may further comprise a surfactant.The surfactant may be an anionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, anampholytic surfactant, or a nonionic surfactant. Examples of nonionicsurfactants include polyethoxylates, fatty alcohols (e.g., ceteth-20 (acetyl ether of polyethylene oxide having an average of about 20 ethyleneoxide units) and other “BRIJ” ® nonionic surfactants available from ICIAmericas, Inc. (Wilmington, Del.)), cocamidopropyl betaine, alkylphenols, fatty acid esters of sorbitol, sorbitan, or POLYOXyethylenesorbitan. Suitable anionic surfactants include ammonium lauryl sulfateand lauryl ether sulfosuccinate. A preferred surfactant is lauroylethylenediamine triacetic acid sodium salt at a concentration betweenabout 0.5% and 2.0%. In particular non-limiting embodiments of theinvention, concentrations of surfactant are between about 0.05% and 2%.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, a personal careproduct may comprise water.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, a personal careproduct comprising a combination of one or more essential oil and/or ICtogether with one or more fruit acid may further comprise a hydrogelcomprising, for example, a compound such as hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, cationic hydroxyethyl cellulose (UCARE polymers), ethylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxymethyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide (POLYOX resins), and chitosanpyrrolidone carboxylate (KYTAMER PC).

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, a personal careproduct comprising a combination of one or more essential oil and/or ICtogether with one or more fruit acid may further comprise an alcohol ora mixture of alcohols, for example, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, n-propylalcohol, and mixtures thereof; fatty alcohols, including, but notlimited to, cetyl alcohol, myristol alcohol, stearyl alcohol, octylalcohol, decyl alcohol and lauryl alcohol, and mixtures thereof; andhexanol.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, a personal careproduct comprising a combination of one or more essential oil and/or ICtogether with one or more fruit acid may further comprise a siliconepolymer, for example one or more than one polydimethylsiloxane polymer(Dow Corning 225 Silicone Fluid), dimethiconol fluid in dimethicone (DowCorning 1403 Silicone Fluid), cyclomethicone and dimethicone copolyl(Dow Corning 3225C Silicone Fluid), and silicone glycol (BASF 1066 DCGpolyol). In particular, non-limiting embodiments, the amount of siliconepolymer is between about 0.1 and 1.0 percent (volume/volume).

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, a personal careproduct comprising a combination of one or more essential oil and/or ICtogether with one or more fruit acid may further comprise an emollientsolvent such as a glycidyl ether having an alkyl chain up to andincluding 18 carbon molecules and ethoxylates and propoxylates thereof,a glyceryl ether having an alkyl chain up to and including 18 carbonmolecules and ethoxylates and propoxylates thereof, a mono- ordiglyceryl ether having an alkyl chain up to and including 18 carbonmolecules and ethoxylates and propoxylates thereof, ethoxylate andpropoxylate ethers, ethoxy diglycol esters, ethyl hexyl alcoholpropoxylate, and propylene glycol esther ethoxylates and propoxylates,and Arlamol (Altas).

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, a personal careproduct comprising a combination of one or more essential oil and/or ICtogether with one or more fruit acid may further comprise additives suchas dyes, fragrances, pH adjusters, including basic pH adjusters such asammonia, mono-, di- and tri-alkyl amines, mono-, di- andtri-alkanolamines, alkali metal and alkaline eaiih metal hydroxides(e.g., ammonia, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, lithiumhydroxide, monoethanolamine, triethylamine, isopropylamine,diethanolamine and triethanolamine); acid pH adjusters such as mineralacids and polycarboxylic acids (e.g., hydrochloric acid, nitric acid,phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, citric acid, glycolic acid, and lacticacid); vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin E and vitamin C; polyaminoacids and salts, such as ethylenediamine tetraacidic acid (EDTA),preservatives such as Germall Plus and DMDM hydantoin, and sunscreenssuch as aminobenzoic acid, arobenzone, cinoxate, dioxybenzone,homosalate, menthyl anthranilate, octocrylene, octyl methoxycinnamate,octyl salicylate, oxybenzoate, padimate 0, phenylbenzimidazole, sulfonicacid, sulisobenzone, titanium dioxide, trolamine salicylate and zincoxide.

In one set of non-limiting embodiments, the present invention providesfor personal care compositions comprising one or more EO/IC, preferablywhere the EO(s)/IC(s) are selected from the group consisting oflemongrass oil and/or an IC thereof, orange oil and/or an IC thereof,cinnamon leaf oil and/or an IC thereof, basil oil and/or an IC thereof,eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, cinnamylacetic ester, and cinnamic acid, at atotal concentration of between about 0.1 and 1 percent (weight/weight);a fruit acid, preferably citric acid, at a concentration of betweenabout 0.125 and 1 percent (weight/weight); an alcohol, preferablyethanol, at a concentration of between about 5 and 20 percent(weight/weight); and optionally triclosan at a concentration of betweenabout 0.05 and 1 percent (weight/weight), where the ratio of EO(s)/IC(s)to the fruit acid(s) is between about 1:1 to 1:10 and the pH is betweenabout 3 and about 7, preferably between 5 and 6.

In another set of non-limiting embodiments, the present inventionprovides for personal care compositions comprising lemongrass oil or anIC thereof and orange oil or an IC thereof at a total concentration ofbetween about 0.2 and 0.7 percent (weight/weight); a fruit acid,preferably citric acid, at a concentration of between about 0.25 and 1percent (weight/weight); an alcohol, preferably ethanol, at aconcentration of between about 5 and 20 percent (weight/weight); andoptionally triclosan at a concentration of between about 0.05 and 1percent (weight/weight), where the ratio of EO(s)/IC(s) to fruit acid(s)is between about 1:1 to 1:5 and the pH is between about 3 and about 7,preferably between 5 and 6.

In one specific, non-limiting embodiment, the present invention providesfor a liquid soap product called “CN1-A” having the followingcomposition:

Ingredients (weight/weight) Deionized water 59.15% POLYOX N-60K  0.2%Pluronic F87 Prill  2.0% UCARE JR-30  0.4% DL-Panthenol 50 W  1.0%Incromine oxide L  3.0% Crosultane C-50  3.0% Montalene C 40  3.0%2-Phenoxy-ethanol  1.0% Zinc gluconate  0.1% Glycerine  2.0% SDA 40Balcohol  15.5% Cinnamon leaf oil  0.5% Citric acid  1.0% Orange oil 0.2% Distilled water  7.95%

In another specific, non-limiting embodiment, the present inventionprovides for a liquid soap product called “CN1-B” having the followingcomposition:

Ingredients (weight/weight) Deionized water 63.2% METHOCEL 40-101 0.1%Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1% UCARE JR-30 0.1% DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0%Incromine oxide L 3.0% Crosultane C-50 3.0% Montalene C 40 1.5%2-Phenoxy-ethanol 1.0% Glycerine 2.0% SDA 40B alcohol 15.5% Cinnamonleaf oil 0.5% Citric acid 1.0% Orange oil 0.2% Distilled water 7.8%

In another specific, non-limiting embodiment, the present inventionprovides for a liquid soap product called “CN1-C” having the followingcomposition:

Ingredients (weight/weight) Deionized water 63.2% METHOCEL 40-101 0.1%Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1% UCARE JR-30 0.1% DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0%Incromine oxide L 3.0% Crosultane C-50 3.0% Montalene C 40 1.5%2-Phenyl-ethanol 1.0% Glycerine 2.0% SDA 40B alcohol 15.5% Cinnamon leafoil 0.5% Citric acid 1.0% Orange oil 0.2% Distilled water 7.8%

In a subset of non-limiting embodiments, the present invention providesfor a soap comprising one or more essential oil, 1% citric acid, and asoap base comprising a surfactant, an emollient, and a thickener, andhaving a pH between about 3 and 5. Specific non-limiting examples ofsuch soaps follow.

Soap Containing Lemongrass oil and Citric acid (LG-Cit 4)

(4 represents total oil 0.4%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 63.5 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Lemongrass oil 0.4

Soap Containing Lemongrass oil and Citric acid (LG-Cit 6)

(6 represents total oil 0.6%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized Water 63.3 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Lemongrass oil 0.6

Soap Containing Lemongrass oil, Orange oil (O) and Citric acid (LGO-Cit6)

(6 represents total oil 0.6%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized Water 63.3 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Lemongrass oil 0.4 Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil0.2

Soap Containing Lemongrass oil, Orange oil and Citric acid (LGO-Cit 7)

(7 represents total oil 0.7%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 63.2 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Lemongrass oil 0.5 Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil0.2

Soap Containing Cinnamon oil, Orange oil and Citric acid (CO-Cit 6)

(6 represents total oil 0.6%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 63.3 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Cinnamon oil 0.4 Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil0.2

Soap Containing Cinnamon oil, Orange oil and Citric acid (CO-Cit 7)

(7 represents total oil 0.7%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 63.2 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 Incromineoxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Cinnamon oil 0.5 Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil0.2

Soap Containing Orange oil and Citric acid (O-Cit 2)

(2 represents total oil 0.2%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 63.7 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Orange oil 0.2 Citric acid 1.0

Soap Containing Basil oil (B), Orange oil and Citric acid (BO-Cit 6)

(6 represents total oil 0.6%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 63.3 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Basil oil 0.4 Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.2

Soap Containing Citronella oil (CR), Orange oil and Citric acid (CRO-Cit6)

(6 represents total oil 0.6%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 63.3 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Citronella oil 0.4 Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil0.2

In further specific, non-limiting embodiments, the present inventionprovides for the following combinations of agents in a soap base(percentages w/w):

-   -   0.15% TC+0.4% lemongrass oil+0.2% orange oil+1% citric acid; or    -   0.4% lemongrass oil+0.2% orange oil+1% citric acid; or    -   0.15% TC+0.4% cinnamon oil+0.2% orange oil+1% citric acid; or    -   0.4% cinnamon oil+0.2% orange oil+1% citric acid.

In still further specific, non-limiting embodiments, the presentinvention provides for the following combinations of agents in a soapbase (percentages w/w):

-   -   Cinnamon oil 0.5%+Orange oil 0.2%+Citric acid 1.0%+alcohol        (e.g., denatured ethyl alcohol, such as SDA 40 B) 5.5%+TC 0.14%        (or TC 0.15%); or    -   Lemongrass oil 0.5%+Orange oil 0.2%+Citric acid 1.0%+alcohol        (e.g., denatured ethyl alcohol, such as SDA 40B) 5.5%+TC 0.14%        (or TC 0.15%); or    -   Lemongrass oil 0.5%+Citric acid 1.0%+alcohol (e.g. denatured        ethyl alcohol such as SDA 40 B) 5.5%+TC 0.14% (or TC 0.15%).

In specific non-limiting embodiments, the present invention provides forcompositions comprising 0.2-0.3 percent (weight/weight) of essentialoils such as lemongrass or cinnamon and 0.1-0.2 percent (weight/weight)orange oil when used in combination with 1% citric acid and alkanediolssuch as 1,2 decanediol, 1,2 dodecanediol and 1,12 dodecanediol, as setforth above. In a specific, non-limiting embodiment, the presentinvention provides for a soap formulation comprising 0.3% of lemongrassoil or cinnamon oil in combination with 0.1% orange oil, and 1% citricacid with and without alkanediols, where the pH preferably is between4.5 and 4.6.

Soap containing Lemongrass oil, Orange oil and Citric acid (LG-0-Cit 5)

(5 represents total oil 0.5%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 64.8 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.0 Lemongrass oil 0.3Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.2 pH 4.55

Soap Containing Lemongrass oil, Orange oil and Citric acid (LG-O-Cit 4)

(4 represents total oil 0.4%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 64.9 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.0 Lemongrass oil 0.3Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.1 pH 4.64

Soap Containing LG-0-Cit 5 and 0.3% 1,2 Decanediol

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 64.5 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.0 Lemongrass oil 0.3Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.2 1,2 Decanediol 0.3 pH 4.6

Soap Containing LG-O-Cit 4 and 0.3% 1,2 Decanediol

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 64.6 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.0 Lemongrass oil 0.3Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.1 1,2 Decanediol 0.3 pH 4.6

Soap Containing LG-0-Cit 4 and 0.3% 1,2 Decanediol+0.5% IncroquatBehenyl TMS

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 64.1 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.0 Lemongrass oil 0.3Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.1 1,2 Decanediol 0.3 Incroquat TMS 0.5 pH4.6

Soap Containing LG-O-Cit 4 and 0.3% 1,2 Dodecanediol

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 64.6 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.0 Lemongrass oil 0.3Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.1 1,2 Dodecanediol 0.3

Soap Containing LG-O-Cit 4 and 0.3% 1,12 Dodecanediol

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 64.6 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.0 Lemongrass oil 0.3Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.1 1,12 Dodecanediol 0.3

Soap Containing LG-O-Cit 4 and 0.3% 1,2 Tetradecanediol

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 64.6 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR-N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.0 Lemongrass oil 0.3Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.1 1,2 Tetradecanediol 0.3

Soap Containing LG-O-Cit 4A

(Same as LG-O-Cit 4 but contains 17% SDA 40B alcohol instead of 15%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 62.9 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 17.0 Lemongrass oil 0.3Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.1 pH 4.64

Soap Containing LG-O-Cit 4A and 0.5% 1,2 Decanediol

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 62.6 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 17.0 Lemongrass oil 0.3Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.1 1,2 Decanediol 0.5 pH 4.6

Soap Containing LG-O-Cit 4A and 0.5% 1,2 Dodecanediol

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 62.6 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 17.0 Lemongrass oil 0.3Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.1 1,2 Decanediol 0.5 pH 4.6

Soap Containing LG-O-Cit 4A and 0.5% 1,12 Dodecanediol

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 62.6 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 17.0 Lemongrass oil 0.3Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.1 1,12 Decanediol 0.5 pH 4.6

Soap Containing LG-O-Cit 4A and 0.5% 1,2 Tetradecanediol

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 62.6 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 17.0 Lemongrass oil 0.3Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.1 1,2 Tetradecanediol 0.5 pH 4.6

Soap Containing Cn-O-Cit 4A

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 62.9 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 17.0 Cinnamon oil 0.3 Citricacid 1.0 Orange oil 0.1 pH 4.64

Soap Containing Cn-O-Cit 4A+0.5% 1,2 Decanediol

Ingredient Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 62.6 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 17.0 Cinnamon oil 0.3 Citricacid 1.0 Orange oil 0.1 1,2 Decanediol 0.5 pH 4.64

Soap Base

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 81.3 METHOCEL 40-101 0.2Pluronic F87 Prill 1.0 POLYOX WSR N-60K 0.2 UCARE JR-30 0.3 DL-Panthenol50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 8.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 2.02-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 pH 4.64 (adjusted with 10Nhydrochloric acid)

An antibacterial topical lotion comprising LG-O-Cit A+1,2 Decanediol(“LG-O-Cit A-D Lotion”):

Constituent % (w/w) Water 65.9 UCARE JR-30M 0.25 POLYOX WSR-205 0.1Incroquat Behenyl TMS 2.0 Isopropyl myristate 1.0 Acetulan 1.0 Vitamin E0.2 Zinc stearate 0.2 Polawax NF 2.75 Glycerine 2.0 Allantoin 0.2Dimethicone copolyol (Q2-5220) 2.5 Citric acid 1.0 1,2 Decanediol 0.5Tocopheryl acetate 0.5 Glyceryl stearate (Arlacel 165) 1.0 Butyleneglycol 3.0 SDA 40B 15.0 Lemongrass oil 0.5 Tea tree oil 0.5 Orange oil0.1 1,2 Decanediol (SymClairol) 0.5 (pH adjusted to 4.5-5.0)

An antibacterial topical lotion comprising LG-O-Cit A+1,2Decanediol+Triclosan (“LG-O-Cit A-D-T Lotion”):

Constituent % (w/w) Water 65.6 UCARE JR-30 0.25 POLYOX WSR-205 0.1Incroquat Behenyl TMS 2.0 Isopropyl myristate 1.0 Acetulan 1.0 Vitamin E0.2 Zinc stearate 0.2 Polawax NF 2.75 Glycerine 2.0 Allantoin 0.2Dimethicone copolyol (Q2-5220) 2.5 Citric acid 1.0 1,2 Decanediol 0.5Tocopheryl acetate 0.5 Glyceryl stearate (Arlacel 165) 1.0 Butyleneglycol 3.0 SDA 40B 15.0 Lemongrass oil 0.5 Tea tree oil 0.5 Orange oil0.1 1,2 Decanediol (SymClairol) 0.5 Triclosan 0.3 (pH adjusted to4.5-5.0)

An antibacterial-anti inflammatory topical lotion comprisingLG-O-CitA+1,2 Decanediol (“LG-O-Cit A-D AB/AIF Lotion”):

Constituent % (w/w) Water 65.6 UCARE JR-30 0.25 POLYOX WSR-205 0.1Incroquat Behenyl TMS 2.0 Isopropyl myristate 1.0 Acetulan 1.0 Vitamin E0.2 Zinc stearate 0.2 Polawax NF 2.75 Glycerine 2.0 Allantoin 0.2Dimethicone copolyol (Q2-5220) 2.5 Citric acid 1.0 1,2 Decanediol 0.5Tocopheryl acetate 0.5 Glyceryl stearate (Arlacel 165) 1.0 Butyleneglycol 3.0 SDA 40B 15.0 Lemongrass oil 0.5 Tea tree oil 0.5 Orange oil0.1 1,2 Decanediol (SymClairol) 0.5 Curcumin 0.2 Camphor 0.1 (pHadjusted to 4.5-5.0)

Preservative Composition A

Ingredients % (w/w) Lemongrass oil 10 Farnesol 10 Orange oil 5 Lacticacid 7 1,2 Decanediol 7 SDA 40B alcohol 61

Preservative Composition B

Ingredients % (w/w) Lemongrass oil 15 Farnesol 15 Orange oil 10 Lacticacid 10 SDA 40B alcohol 50

Preservative Composition C

Ingredients % (w/w) Farnesol 17 Citric acid 7 1,2 Decanediol 7 SDA 40Balcohol 69

Preservative Composition D

Ingredients % (w/w) Lemongrass oil 15 Orange oil 5 Lactic acid 10 1,2Decanediol 20 1,2 Octanediol 20 SDA 40B alcohol 30

Preservative Composition E

Ingredients % (w/w) Lemongrass oil 15 Orange oil 5 Lactic acid 10 1,2Octanediol 40 SDA 40B alcohol 30

The pH of these solutions are adjusted to 5.0. Of these preservatives,0.5-5.0% can be used in various formulations.

Antimicrobial Impregnation Solution

Ingredients % (w/w) Lemongrass oil 0.3 Orange oil 0.1 Tea tree oil 0.5Calendula oil 0.5 Citric acid 1.0 Olive oil 5.0 Propylene glycol 10Decanediol 0.5 SDA 40B alcohol 51.7 UCARE JR-30 0.4 Water 30

Antimicrobial/Anti-Inflammatory Impregnation Solution

Ingredients % (w/w) Lemongrass oil 0.3 Orange oil 0.1 Tea tree oil 0.5Calendula oil 0.5 Citric acid 1.0 Olive oil 5.0 Propylene glycol 10Decanediol 0.5 SDA 40B alcohol 51.0 UCARE JR-30 0.4 Curcumin 0.3 Water29.74.7 Veterinary Products

In a subset of non-limiting embodiments, the present invention providesfor veterinary products comprising a combination of one or moreessential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid, as setforth in section 4.4 or 4.5, above. The term “veterinary”, as used here,means “pet care”, and includes home use as well as use in a veterinaryoffice or other pet care establishment.

Non-limiting examples of veterinary care products which may utilize theinvention include pet shampoo, pet cleansing wipes including body wipes,ear wipes, and eye wipes, ear cleaning liquid, cage cleaner, surfacecleaner for housebreaking accidents, topical creams, teat diptherapeutic for mastitis and liquid to be applied to pet's skin (as in a“body splash”).

Veterinary care compositions according to the invention, in addition toone or more essential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruitacid, may further comprise one or (preferably) more than one componentselected from the group consisting of emollients, stabilizing agents,thickening agents, humectants, antimicrobial agents, neutralizingagents, surfactants, water, silicone polymers, alcohols, and hydrogels,anti-inflammatory agents, wound healing agents, as well as additionalcomponents as may be known in the art.

Specific, non-limiting examples of additional components which may becomprised in pet care products include the components listed above forpersonal care products.

4.8 Household/Industrial Products

In a subset of non-limiting embodiments, the present invention providesfor household/industrial products comprising a combination of one ormore essential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid, asset forth in section 4.4 and 4.5, above.

Non-limiting embodiments of household/industrial products which mayutilize the invention include household cleaners such as concentratedliquid cleaners and spray cleaners, cleaning wipes, dish washing liquid,dish washer detergent, spray-mop liquid, furniture polish, indoor paint,outdoor paint, dusting spray, laundry detergent, fabric softener,rug/fabric cleaner, window and glass cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner,liquid/cream cleanser, etc. In a particular embodiment, the inventionmay be used in a food wash product, designed to clean fruits andvegetables prior to consumption. “Household products” are products,other than personal care products, that would be used by individualconsumers. “Industrial products” refers to products that are used inindustry.

Household-industrial compositions according to the invention, inaddition to one or more essential oil and/or IC together with one ormore fruit acid, may further comprise one or (preferably) more than onecomponent selected from the group consisting of surfactants, builders(e.g., sequestering builders, precipitating builders, ion exchangebuilders), solvents, thickeners, abrasives, acids, bases (alkalis),antimicrobial agents, soaps, bleaching agents, enzymes, preservatives,and sudsing agents, as well as additional components as may be known inthe art.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, ahousehold/industrial product comprising a combination of one or moreessential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid may furthercomprise a surfactant, for example, but not limited to, an anionicsurfactant such as an alkyl sulfate, an alkyldiphenyloxide disulfonatesalt (e.g., the DOWFAX series by the Dow Chemical Company), analkylbenzenesulfonate, an alcohol ethoxysulfate; a cationic surfactant;a non-ionic surfactant, such as a secondary alcohol ethoxylate (e.g.,the TERGITOL series by the Dow Chemical Company) or an alkylpolyglucoside (e.g., the TRITON series by the Dow Chemical Company); oran amphoteric surfactant such as an imidazoline or betaine compound.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, ahousehold/industrial product comprising a combination of one or moreessential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid may furthercomprise a builder, for example, but not limited to, a sequesteringbuilder (chelating agent) such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid(“EDTA”), sodium citrate, or a complex phosphate; an ion exchangebuilder such as zeolite, or a precipitating builder such as sodiumcarbonate or sodium silicate.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, ahousehold/industrial product comprising a combination of one or moreessential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid may furthercomprise a solvent, for example, but not limited to, water, an alcoholsuch as methanol, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, or butanol; a hydrocarbonsuch as an aromatic hydrocarbon, prolylene glycol, methylene chloride,acetone, a petroleum distillate, and/or a glycol ether.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, ahousehold/industrial product comprising a combination of one or moreessential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid may furthercomprise a thickener, for example, but not limited to, a polyethyleneglycol, a methoxypolyethylene glycol, and/or hydroxyethyl cellulose.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, ahousehold/industrial product comprising a combination of one or moreessential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid may furthercomprise an abrasive, such as, but not limited to, silica, feldspar orcalcite.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, ahousehold/industrial product comprising a combination of one or moreessential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid may furthercomprise an acid, such as, but not limited to, acetic acid, hydroaceticacid, phosphoric acid or hydrochloric acid.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, ahousehold/industrial product comprising a combination of one or moreessential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid may furthercomprise a base (alkali) such as, but not limited to, ammonia or sodiumbicarbonate.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, ahousehold/industrial product comprising a combination of one or moreessential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid may furthercomprise an antimicrobial agent, for example, but not limited to,compounds as set forth above for personal care compositions, and alsopine oil and sodium hypochlorite.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, ahousehold/industrial product comprising a combination of one or moreessential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid may furthercomprise a bleaching agent, for example, but not limited to, sodiumhypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide, sodium percarbonate and sodiumperborate.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, ahousehold/industrial product comprising a combination of one or moreessential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid may furthercomprise an enzyme, such as, but not limited to, a protease or a lipase.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, ahousehold/industrial product comprising a combination of one or moreessential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid may furthercomprise a preservative, such as, but not limited to, butylatedhydroxytoluene, glutaraldehyde, and EDTA.

In various non-limiting embodiments of the invention, ahousehold/industrial product comprising a combination of one or moreessential oil and/or IC together with one or more fruit acid may furthercomprise a sudsing agent, such as, but not limited to, diethanolamine ortriethanolamine.

In one set of non-limiting embodiments, the present invention providesfor surface cleaner compositions comprising (i) one or more EO/IC,preferably where the EO(s)/IC(s) are selected from the group consistingof lemongrass oil and/or an IC thereof; orange oil and/or an IC thereof;cinnamon leaf oil and/or an IC thereof; basil oil and/or an IC thereof;and/or pine oil and/or an IC thereof; at a total concentration ofbetween about 0.1 and 1 percent (weight/weight); a fruit acid,preferably citric acid, at a concentration of between about 1 and 2percent (weight/weight); (iii) an alcohol, preferably ethanol, at aconcentration of between about 5 and 20 percent (weight/weight); and(iv) optionally triclosan at a concentration of between about 0.05 and 1percent (weight/weight), where the ratio of EO(s)/IC(s) to fruit acid isbetween about 1:1 to 1:10 (inclusive) and the pH is between about 3 andabout 7, preferably between 3 and 5. In certain non-limiting embodimentsof the invention, cinnamon leaf oil or an IC thereof and/or pine oil oran IC thereof is not present.

In specific, non-limiting embodiments, the present invention providesfor the following surface cleaners, having concentrations of activeingredients as indicated, as well as concentrated stock solutions ofthese formulations which may be diluted to achieve the respectiveconcentrations:

Surface Disinfectant-LG Cit 2

-   -   0.2% Lemongrass oil+2% Citric acid+7.65% alcohol+0.15%        surfactants        Surface Disinfectant-LG P Cit 4    -   0.3% Pine oil+0.1% Lemongrass oil+2% Citric acid+7.45%        alcohol+0.15% surfactants        Surface Disinfectant-P Cit 5    -   0.5% Pine oil+2% Citric acid+7.45% alcohol+0.15% surfactants        Surface Disinfectant-PO Cit 7    -   0.5% Pine oil+0.2% Orange oil+1% Citric acid+5.35% alcohol+0.15%        surfactants        Surface Disinfectant-LGO Cit 7    -   0.5% Lemongrass oil+0.2% Orange oil+1% Citric acid+5.35%        alcohol+0.15% surfactants

Stock solution of hard surface Disinfectant-LG-O-Cit 1+Dodecanediol:

Ingredients % (w/w) Lemongrass oil 3.0 Orange oil 1.0 Citric Acid 10.01,12 Dodecanediol 5.0 SDA 40B alcohol 79.5 Pluronic Surfactant L-61 0.5Pluronic Surfactant F-127 0.5 Pluronic Surfactant F-87 0.5Before use this solution is diluted tenfold with water.

Stock solution of hard surface Disinfectant-LG-O-Cit 2+Dodecanediol

Ingredients % (w/w) Lemongrass oil 3.0 Orange oil 1.0 Citric Acid 20.01,12 Dodecanediol 5.0 SDA 40B alcohol 69.5 Pluronic Surfactant L-61 0.5Pluronic Surfactant F-127 0.5 Pluronic Surfactant F-87 0.5Before use this solution is diluted tenfold with water

The detailed description hereby incorporates, by reference, the specificworking examples of the invention set forth below.

The working examples sometimes refer to Softsoap® or Dial® soaps.

Softsoap® is a commercially sold liquid soap comprising water, sodiumlaureth sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, decylglucoside, sodiumchloride, fragrance, DMDM hydantoin, PEG-120 methyl glucose dioleate,tetrasodium ethylene diamine tetracetic acid, sodium sulfate,polyquaternium-7, citric acid, poloxamer 124, PEG-7 glyceryl, cocoate,benzophenine-4, and colors.

Dial® soap is a commercially sold liquid soap, where Dial® Antibacterialhand soap comprises, as active agent, 0.15 percent triclosan, and theinactive agents are water, sodium laureth sulfate, ammonium laurylsulfate, decyl glucoside, cocamidopropyl betaine, glycerine, sodiumchloride, PEG-18 glyceryl oleate/cocoate, fragrance, cocamide MEA, DMDMhydantoin, tetrasodium ethylene diamine tetracetic acid and colors.

Example 1

Various concentrations of basil oil and acetic, lactic, and citricacids, separately and in combination, were prepared in 10 percent SDA40B alcohol and water, and adjusted to 100 percent. Except for citricacid, which was added by weight, all other ingredients were measured byvolume. 0.9 ml of each solution were dispensed in sterile culture tubes,in triplicate, and 0.1 ml of a 10⁷ cfu/ml S. aureus culture was added tothe tubes, vortexed, and then, five minutes later, 9.0 ml of druginactivating medium was added to each tube. Serial dilutions were madewith the drug inactivating medium. 0.5 ml of the dilutions were platedon trypticase soy agar (“TSA”) plates. As a control, water containing 10percent SDA 40B alcohol was processed in parallel. The plates wereincubated at 37° C. for 24-48 hours and then the colony counts weredetermined. The results are shown in Table 1. The greater synergy wasobserved between basil oil and citric acid (“CA”).

TABLE 1 Compounds Log 10 Reduction* 1% Basil oil 2.7 0.5% Basil oil 1.80.25% Basil oil 0.4 1% Acetic acid (AA) 0.2 1% Lactic acid (LA) 2.3 1%Citric acid (CA) 0.1 1% Basil oil + 1% LA 5.4 1% Basil oil + 1% AA 3.41% Basil oil + 1% CA 5.1 0.5% Basil oil + 1% CA 5.1 0.5% Basil oil +0.5% CA 5.0 0.25% Basil oil + 1% CA 5.0 *Log reduction from controlbacterial counts ranging from 1 × 10⁶ to 5 × 10⁶.

The same methodology was used to test the antimicrobial activity ofcombinations of citric acid with other essential oils. The results areshown in Table 2. In these experiments, cinnamon oil and citronella oilexhibited superior antimicrobial activities in combination with citricacid.

TABLE 2 Compounds Log 10 Reduction* 1% CA 0.1 0.5% Cinnamon bark 2.40.25% Cinnamon bark 1.1 0.5% Cinnamon bark + 1% CA 5.9 0.25% Cinnamonbark + 1% CA 4.3 0.125% Cinnamon bark + 1% CA 2.6 0.25% Cinnamon leaf2.8 0.25% Cinnamon leaf + 1% CA 5.7 0.125% Citronella oil 1.3 0.25%Citronella oil + 1% CA 6.2 0.125% Citronella oil + 1% CA 3.3 0.25%Orange oil 0 0.25% Orange oil + 1% CA 2.3 0.25% Lemon oil 0.05 0.25%Lemon oil + 1% CA 3.3 0.25% Lavender oil 0.25 0.25% Lavender oil + 1% CA4.0 0.25% Clove oil 0.1 0.25% Clove oil + 1% CA 3.3 0.25% Tea tree oil 00.25% Tea tree oil + 1% CA 4.7 0.25% Farnesol 0 0.25% Farnesol + 1% CA4.0 *Log reduction from control bacterial counts ranging from 1 × 10⁶ to5 × 10⁶.

Next, the same general protocol was used to test the efficacy of basil,cinnamon and citronella oils against a variety of organisms, namely E.coli, P. aeruginosa, MRSA, C. albicans, and S. aureus. The results,which demonstrate that in these experiments, combinations of cinnamonoil and citric acid exhibited superior antimicrobial action, are shownin Table 3.

TABLE 3 Log 10 Reductions* E. P. C. S. Compounds coli aeruginosa MRSAalbicans aureus 0.25% Basil oil + 6.0 5.5 5.2 1.5 5.0 1% CA 0.25%Cinnamon bark 6.0 6.0 5.2 4.5 4.3 oil + 1% CA 0.25% Citronella 6.4 6.46.5 1.0 6.3 oil + 1% CA 0.25% Cinnamon leaf 6.4 6.4 6.5 5.4 6.3 oil + 1%CA 0.25% Eugenol + — 6.5 — 5.5 — 1% CA *Log reduction from controlbacteria counts ranging from 1 × 10⁶ to 5 × 10⁶ or C. albicans rangingfrom 1 × 10⁵ to 5 × 10⁵.

Example 2

The following experiments were performed to evaluate the effectivenessof a hard surface cleaner composition comprising cinnamon leaf oil andcitric acid.

Two stock solutions of a hard surface cleaner/disinfectant was prepared,with the following ingredients (the two solutions contained differentamounts of cinnamon leaf oil, and therefore the amount of alcohol tobring the solution to 100% also varied):

Cinnamon leaf oil 3.6 or 7.2% (w/w) Citric acid 14.3% (w/w) SDA 40Balcohol 77.2 or 75.49 (w/w) (to bring the volume to 100%) Pluronicsurfactant L-61 0.7% (w/w) Pluronic surfactant F-127 0.7% (w/w) Pluronicsurfactant F-87 0.7% (w/w) Orange oil 2.8% (w/w)

7% of the stock hard disinfectant was diluted with water to 100%.

0.1 ml of culture containing approximately 1×10⁷ colony forming units(“cfu”) per milliliter was spread evenly on the surface of 2.5×11 cm²tiles using a glass rod and left at room temperature for 10 minutes todry. After 10 minutes 0.3 ml of the diluted surface disinfectant wasspread evenly on the tiles with a sterile glass rod and left for another10 minutes to dry. The tiles were rinsed with 9.6 ml of inactivatingmedium (BPBNS), which was collected for testing. The collected mediumwas serially diluted and 0.5 ml was plated onto TSA plates and incubatedat 37° C. for 18-24 hours. The colonies on the plates were counted andthe values converted to log₁₀. Commercially available Pinesol®, whichcontains pine oil, was used as a basis for comparison. Pinesol®containing 15% pine oil was diluted with water as per the manufacturer'sinstructions to a final concentration of 0.9% pine oil. The results areshown in Table 4. The results show that the composition comprising 0.5%cinnamon leaf oil and 1% citric acid exhibited greater antimicrobialactivity than the pine oil cleaner against 4 out of 5 microbes tested.

TABLE 4 Log 10 Reductions* 0.25% cinn. oil + 0.5% cinn. oil + Organism1% CA 1% CA 0.1% Pinesol ® E. coli 5.3 5.3 5.7 P. aeruginosa 6.1 6.1 3.9MRSA 2.3 3.4 2.2 C. albicans 2.5 5.2 2.1 S. aureus 3.7 4.1 2.4 *log₁₀reduction from control bacterial counts ranges from 1 × 10⁶-5 × 10⁶ forall bacteria, but for C. albicans counts were 1 × 10⁵-5 × 10⁵.

Example 3

Various concentrations of cinnamon leaf oil and citric acid weredissolved in SDA 40B alcohol (10%) and water, and adjusted to 100percent. Except for citric acid, which was added by weight, all otheringredients were measured by volume. 0.9 ml of each solution weredispensed in sterile culture tubes, in triplicate, and 0.1 ml of 10⁷cfu/ml of S. aureus culture was added to the tubes, vortexed, and then,five minutes later, 9.0 ml of drug inactivating medium was added to eachtube. Serial dilutions were made with the drug inactivating medium. 0.5ml of the dilutions were plated on trypticase soy agar (“TSA”) plates.As a control, water containing 10% percent SDA 40B alcohol was processedin parallel. The plates were incubated at 37° C. for 24-48 hours andthen the colony counts were determined. The results are shown in Table5.

TABLE 5 Compounds Log 10 reduction Citric Acid 2% 0.32 Citric Acid 1.0%0.30 Citric Acid 0.5% 0.20 Citric Acid 0.25% 0.08 Citric Acid 0.125%0.02 Cinnamon leaf oil 0.25% 0.52 Cinnamon leaf oil 0.5% 0.55 0.25%Cinnamon + 0.25% CA 0.73 0.25% Cinnamon + 0.5% CA 3.0 0.25% Cinnamon +1.0% CA 5.6 0.5% Cinnamon + 0.125% CA 0.84 0.5% Cinnamon + 0.25% CA 2.20.5% Cinnamon + 0.5% CA 3.2 0.5% Cinnamon + 1.0% CA 6.5 0.5% Cinnamon +2.0% CA 6.7

Example 4

A liquid soap called “CN1-A” containing cinnamon oil and citric acid wasprepared, having the following composition:

Ingredients (weight/weight) Deionized water 59.15% POLYOX N-60K  0.2%Pluronic F87 Prill  2.0% UCARE JR-30  0.4% DL-Panthenol 50 W  1.0%Incromine oxide L  3.0% Crosultane C-50  3.0% Montalene C 40  3.0%2-Phenoxy-ethanol  1.0% Glycerine  2.0% SD -40B alcohol  15.5% Cinnamonleaf oil  0.5% Citric acid  1.0% Orange oil  0.2% Distilled water  7.95%

To prepare the soap, cinnamon oil, orange oil, citric acid, andphenoxyethanol were dissolved in the alcohol, the remaining ingredientswere dissolved in/mixed with water, and then the alcohol and watersolutions were mixed. The pH of the mixture was then adjusted to between5.5 and 6.5 with 0.1 N NaOH.

The antimicrobial activity of the above soap was tested in parallel withcommercial Softsoap® containing triclosan (Softsoap® Antibacterial;Colgate-Palmolive). 0.1 ml of a 10⁸ cfu/ml culture of each microbetested was mixed with 0.1 ml of bovine serum and placed in a sterileculture tube. 0.8 ml of the test soap formulation was added to the tubeand vortexed for 30 seconds. Then 9.0 ml DNB was added to neutralize theactivity of the soap. The tube was then vortexed and serially dilutedwith DNB. 0.5 ml of the diluted solution was plated on TSA plates. Thesame soap base lacking cinnamon oil, citric acid, and orange oil, withphosphate buffered saline mixed with the culture, was used as thecontrol. The results are shown in Table 6.

TABLE 6 Log₁₀ reduction from control* Organisms CN-1A Softsoap ® (0.15%TC) S. aureus 2.0 0.33 P. aeruginosa 2.5 0.6 E. coli 4.86 0.5 MRSA 2.70.8 C. albicans 1.43 0.0 *log₁₀ reduction from control microbe countswhich in all cases ranged from 1 × 10⁷-5 × 10⁷.

Example 5

A liquid soap, called “CN1-B” containing cinnamon oil and citric acidwas prepared, having the following composition:

Ingredients (weight/weight) Deionized water 63.2% METHOCEL 40-101 0.1%Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1% UCARE JR-30 0.1% DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0%Incromine oxide L 3.0% Crosultane C-50 3.0% Montalene C 40 1.5%2-Phenoxy-ethanol 1.0% Glycerine 2.0% SDA 40B alcohol 15.5% Cinnamonleaf oil 0.5% Citric acid 1.0% Orange oil 0.2% Distilled water 7.8%

To prepare the soap, cinnamon oil, orange oil, citric acid, andphenoxyethanol were dissolved in the alcohol, the remaining ingredientswere dissolved in/mixed with water, and then the alcohol and watersolutions were mixed. The pH of the mixture was then adjusted to between5.5 and 6.5 with 0.1 N NaOH.

The antimicrobial activity of the above soap was tested in parallel withcommercial Dial® Antibacterial Hand Soap containing triclosan. 0.1 ml ofa 10⁸ cfu/ml culture of each microbe tested was mixed with 0.1 ml ofbovine serum and placed in a sterile culture tube. 0.8 ml of the testsoap formulation was added to the tube and vortexed for 30 seconds. Then9.0 ml DNB was added to neutralize the activity of the soap. The tubewas then vortexed and serially diluted with DNB. 0.5 ml of the dilutedsolution was plated on TSA plates. The same soap base lacking cinnamonoil, citric acid, and orange oil, with phosphate buffered saline mixedwith the culture, was used as the control. The results are shown inTable 7.

TABLE 7 Log₁₀ reduction from control * Organisms CN1-B Dial ® soap(0.15% TC) S. aureus 5.0 0.36 MRSA 5.1 0.03 E. coli 4.45 0 P. aeruginosa5.9 0.12 * log₁₀ reduction from control microbe counts which in allcases ranged from 1 × 10⁷-5 × 10⁷ 3.4 × 10⁶ for S. aureus, 3-5 × 10⁶ forE. coli and 6 × 10⁵-1.3 × 10⁶ for MRSA.

Example 6

The effectiveness of Softsoap® Juicy Melon (Colgate-Palmolive) withadded cinnamon oil, citric acid, and/or triclosan, against MRSA wasevaluated. Testing was performed essentially as set forth in thepreceding section 9. The results are shown in Table 8.

TABLE 8 Compounds Log 10 reduction* Softsoap ® + 1.5% Cin-Cit 3.63Softsoap ® + 0.075% TC 0.15 Softsoap ® + 0.15% TC 0.20 Softsoap ® + 0.3%TC 0.58 Softsoap ® + 0.075% TC + 1.5% Cin- Cit 4.29 Softsoap ® + 0.15%TC + 1.5% Cin-Cit 4.87 Softsoap ® + 0.3% TC + 1.5% Cin-Cit 6.38 *log₁₀reduction from control microbe counts which in all cases ranged from 1 ×10⁶-5 × 10⁶.

Example 7

The ability of cinnamon oil and citric acid to potentiate the activityof commercial triclosan-containing soaps such as Softsoap® and Dial®Antibacterial Hand Soap containing 0.15% triclosan was tested using anassay essentially as set forth in Section 9, above.

The results are shown in Table 9.

TABLE 9 Log₁₀ reduction from control * S. aureus E. coli MRSA Softsoap ®-TC 0.33 0.25 0.37 Softsoap ® -TC + CIN- Cit 3.9 3.93 6.0 Dial ® Soap-TC0.36 0 0.24 Dial ® Soap-TC + Cin-Cit 3.74 4.18 6.0 * Log reduction fromcontrol bacterial counts (ranges from 3-4 × 10⁶ for S. aureus, 3-5 × 10⁶for E. coli and 6 × 10⁵-1.3 × 10⁶ for MRSA.

In these experiments, the combination of cinnamon oil and citric acidwas found to substantially improve the antimicrobial activity of thecommercial soap.

Example 8

Because a major ingredient of cinnamon oil is eugenol, the effect ofadding eugenol on the antimicrobial activity of commercial soaps wasalso tested. The assay was essentially as set forth in Section 9, above.The results are shown in Table 10.

TABLE 10 Log reduction from control * S. aureus Dial ® Soap-TC 0.30Dial ® Soap-TC + 0.5% Eugenol + 2.32 1% CA Dial ® Soap-TC + 0.5%cinnamon oil + 3.94 1% CA * Log reduction from control bacterial counts(ranged from 3-4 × 10⁶ for S. aureus).

These experiments showed that while adding eugenol improved theantimicrobial effect, the improvement was not as great as that observedfor cinnamon oil.

Example 9

The following experiments were performed to evaluate the antibacterialactivity of LG and citric acid dissolved in alcohol, where the testorganism used was S. aureus. Various amounts of LG oil and citric acidwere dissolved in SDA 40B alcohol, and then water was added to result inthe EO concentration shown and an alcohol concentration of 10 percent.0.9 ml of each solution were dispensed in sterile culture tubes, intriplicate, and 0.1 ml of a 10⁷ cfu/ml S. aureus culture was added tothe tubes, vortexed, and then, five minutes later, 9.0 ml of druginactivating medium was added to each tube. Serial dilutions were madewith drug inactivating medium. 0.5 ml of the dilutions were plated ontrypticase soy agar (“TSA”) plates.

As a control, water containing 10 percent SDA 40B alcohol was processedin parallel. The plates were incubated at 37° C. for 24-48 hours andthen the colony counts were determined.

The results are shown in Table 11.

TABLE 11 Compounds Log 10 reduction from control 1% Citric acid 0.3 0.5%LG oil 1.24 0.55 LG oil + 1% Citric acid 5.59 *Log 10 reduction fromcontrol bacterial counts (control counts ranges from 1 × 10⁶ to 5 × 10⁶)

The results shown in Table 11 indicate that LG oil exhibits superiorantibacterial action in combination with citric acid.

Example 10

Soaps were prepared containing one or more essential oil, 1% citricacid, and a soap base containing surfactants, emollients, thickenersetc. The pH range of the soaps was 3.2-3.3.

Soap Containing Lemongrass oil, and Citric acid (LG-Cit 4)

(4 represents total oil 0.4%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 63.5 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Lemongrass oil 0.4Soap Containing Lemongrass oil and Citric acid (LG-Cit 6)(6 represents total oil 0.6%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 63.3 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Lemongrass oil 0.6

Soap Containing Lemongrass oil, Orange oil and Citric acid (LGO-Cit 6)

(6 represents total oil 0.6%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 63.3 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Lemongrass oil 0.4 Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil0.2Soap Containing Lemongrass oil, Orange oil and Citric acid (LGO-Cit 7)(7 represents total oil 0.7%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 63.2 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Lemongrass oil 0.5 Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil0.2

Soap Containing Cinnamon oil, Orange oil and Citric acid (CO-Cit 6)

(6 represents total oil 0.6%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) METHOCEL 40-101 0.1 Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 Incromine Oxide L 3.0 CrosultaneC-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0 Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B15.5 Cinnamon oil 0.4 Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.2

Soap Containing Cinnamon oil, Orange oil and Citric acid (CO-Cit 7)

(7 represents total oil 0.7%)

Ingredient Percentage (w/w) Deionized Water 63.2 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Cinnamon oil 0.5 Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil0.2

Soap Containing Orange oil and Citric acid (O-Cit 2)

(2 represents total oil 0.2%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 63.7 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Orange oil 0.2 Citric acid 1.0

Soap Containing Basil oil (B), Orange oil and Citric acid (BO-Cit 6)

(6 represents total oil 0.6%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 63.3 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Basil oil 0.4 Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil 0.2

Soap Containing Citronella oil (CR), Orange oil and Citric acid (CRO-Cit6)

(6 represents total oil 0.6%)

Ingredients Percentage (w/w) Deionized water 63.3 METHOCEL 40-101 0.1Pluronic F87 Prill 0.1 UCARE JR-30 0.1 DL-Panthenol 50 W 1.0 IncromineOxide L 3.0 Crosultane C-50 3.0 Montalene C 40 1.5 2-Phenoxy-Ethanol 1.0Glycerine 2.0 SDA 40B 15.5 Citronella oil 0.4 Citric acid 1.0 Orange oil0.2

Example 11

Certain soaps prepared in Example 14 were tested for antimicrobialactivity.

The following method was used. A mixture of 0.1 ml of 10⁷ cfu/ml of S.aureus culture and 0.1 ml of bovine serum were placed in a sterileculture tube. 0.8 ml of the test soap formulation was added to the tubeand vortexed for 30 seconds. 9.0 ml DFN was added to the tube toneutralize the activity of the soap; this tube was then vortexed andserially diluted with DFN. 0.5 ml of the diluted solution was plated ontrypticase soy agar plates, incubated at 37° C. for 24-48 hours and thecolony counts were determined. Softsoap® and Dial® soaps containing0.15% triclosan was also tested similarly at the same time. The soapbase without essential oils and citric acid containing the culture wereused as controls. The results, showing 30 second kill activity, areshown in Table 12.

TABLE 12 Soap Log 10 reduction from control* LG-Cit 4 3.9 LG-Cit 6 4.20-Cit 2 1.5 LOO Cit 6 6.4 *Log 10 reduction from control bacterialcounts (control counts ranges from 1 × 10⁶ to 5 × 10⁶)

These data show that when citric acid was used in combination with 0.4%LG oil+0.2% 0 oil (LGO-Cit 6) superior antibacterial activity wasobserved as compared to that of the combination of citric acid and LGoil 0.6% (LG-Cit 6) or the additive activity of citric acid+0.4% LG oil(LG-Cit 4) and citric acid+0.2% orange oil (O-Cit 2).

Example 12

Certain soaps described in Example 10 were tested for antimicrobialactivity.

The following method was used. A mixture of 0.1 ml of 10⁷ cfu/ml of S.aureus culture and 0.1 ml of bovine serum was placed in a sterileculture tube. 0.8 ml of the test soap formulation was added to the tubeand vortexed for 30 seconds. 9.0 ml DFN was added to the tube toneutralize the activity of the soap; this tube was then vortexed andserially diluted with DFN. 0.5 ml of the diluted solution was plated ontrypticase soy agar plates, incubated at 37° C. for 24-48 hours and thecolony counts were determined. Softsoap® and Dial® soaps containing0.15% triclosan was also tested similarly at the same time. The soapbase without essential oils and citric acid containing the culture wereused as controls. The results, showing 30 second kill activity, areshown in Table 13.

TABLE 13 Soap Log10 reduction from control* LOO-Cit 6 6.4 LOO-Cit 7 6.5CO-Cit 6 5.1 CO-Cit 7 5.2 BO-Cit 6 2.87 CRO-Cit 6 4.57 *Log 10 reductionfrom control bacterial counts (ranges from 1 × 10⁶ to 3 × 10⁶)

These data show that LGO-Cit soaps were found to exhibit higherantibacterial activity compared to the other essential oil/citric acidcombination soaps tested.

Example 13

The following experiments were performed to evaluate the antibacterialactivity of triclosan, LG oil, and combinations of triclosan (TC) and LGoil.

Patent application WO/2007/077573 by Mukhopadhyay et al. describes anantimicrobial composition containing triclosan and an essential oilwhere the ratio of triclosan to the essential oil is 1:5 to 1:100 andthe preferred ratio range is 1:10 to 1:90. In the example provided inUnited States Patent Application Publication No. 20050019431 by Modak etal., TC and essential oil at 1:1 ratio showed neither synergistic norenhanced activity.

Triclosan is often used in personal care products at a concentration of0.15-0.3%. In order to determine whether or not TC at this concentrationwould enhance the activity of essential oil at 0.4-0.7% which is theconcentration used in various formulations described in thisapplication, the antibacterial activity of soaps containing triclosan,LG oil, or TC and LG oil at TC:LG weight ratios of 1:1.7 to 1:4.6 wereevaluated.

To prepare the soaps, TC, LG oil or their combination were dissolved inSDA 40B alcohol and then added to Softsoap® (a formulation lackingtriclosan), then diluted with water, where the amount of SDA 40B alcoholused represented 5.5% of the final solution and the amount of Softsoap®used represented 92% of the final solution. Softsoap® was used as thecontrol in this study.

The following method was used. A mixture of 0.1 ml of 10⁸ cfu/ml of S.aureus culture and 0.1 ml of bovine serum were placed in a sterileculture tube. 0.8 ml of the test soap formulation was added to the tubeand vortexed for 30 seconds. 9.0 ml DFN was added to the tube toneutralize the activity of the soap; this tube was then vortexed andserially diluted with DFN. 0.5 ml of the diluted solution was plated ontrypticase soy agar plates, incubated at 37° C. for 24-48 hours and thecolony counts were determined. The results are shown in Table 14.

TABLE 14 Soap Log10 reduction from control* Softsoap ® + 0.15% TC 0.70Softsoap ® + 0.3% TC 0.81 Softsoap ® + 0.5% LG oil 0.76 Softsoap ® +0.7% LG oil 0.75 Softsoap ® + 0.15% TC + 0.5% LG oil 0.74 Softsoap ® +0.15% TC + 0.7% LG oil 0.92 Softsoap ® + 0.3% TC + 0.5% LG oil 0.77Softsoap ® + 0.3% TC + 0.7% LG oil 0.77 *Log 10 reduction from controlbacterial counts (ranges from 5.8 × 10⁷ to 6.4 × 10⁷ cfu)

These results indicate that no synergistic or enhanced effect was seenwhen triclosan was combined with LG oil at weight ratios falling withinthe range of 1:1.7 to 1:4.6.

Example 14

The antibacterial activity of soaps containing TC-LGO-Cit 6 at weightratios within the range of between 1:3.3 and 1:4.7 (TC:LG) and between1:1.4 and 1:2 (LG:Citric acid) were evaluated against S. aureus. Toprepare the soaps, triclosan/essential oil(s)/citric acid were dissolvedin SDA 40 B alcohol and added to Softsoap® (lacking triclosan) anddiluted with water, so that the final concentration of alcohol was 5.5%and the final concentration of Softsoap® was 92 percent. A mixture of0.1 ml of 10⁷ cfu/ml of S. aureus culture and 0.1 ml of bovine serum wasplaced in a sterile culture tube. 0.8 ml of the test soap formulationwas added to the tube and vortexed for 30 seconds. 9.0 ml DFN was addedto the tube to neutralize the activity of the soap; this tube was thenvortexed and serially diluted with DFN. 0.5 ml of the diluted solutionwas plated on trypticase soy agar plates, incubated at 37° C. for 24-48hours and the colony counts were determined. The results are shown inTable 15.

TABLE 15 Soap Log10 reduction from control* Softsoap ® — Softsoap ® +0.15% TC 0.24 Softsoap ® + 1% citric acid 1.49 Softsoap ® + 0.15% TC +1% citric 2.01 acid Softsoap ® + 0.15% TC + 0.5% LG 2.41 oil + 1% citricacid Softsoap ® + 0.15% TC + 0.4% LG 7.93 oil + 0.2% Orange oil + 1%citric acid *Log 10 reduction from control bacterial counts (ranges from1 × 10⁶ to 5 × 10⁶ cfu).

The foregoing data show that citric acid was found to enhance theactivity of triclosan, and that addition of LG oil+O oil to acombination of triclosan and citric acid further enhanced the effect.

Example 15

The following experiments were performed to compare the antibacterialactivity of combinations of (i) lemongrass oil-citric acid+triclosan;(ii) lemongrass oil+citric acid; and cinnamon oil-citric acid+triclosan,all in a Softsoap® base.

To prepare the soaps, triclosan/essential oil/citric acid were dissolvedin SDA 40B alcohol and added to Softsoap® (lacking triclosan) anddiluted with water, so that the final concentration of alcohol was 5.5%and the final concentration of Softsoap® was 92 percent. A mixture of0.1 ml of 10⁸ cfu/ml of S. aureus culture and 0.1 ml of bovine serum wasplaced in a sterile culture tube. 0.8 ml of the test soap formulationwas added to the tube and vortexed for 30 seconds. 9.0 ml DFN was addedto the tube to neutralize the activity of the soap; this tube was thenvortexed and serially diluted with DFN. 0.5 ml of the diluted solutionwas plated on trypticase soy agar plates, incubated at 37° C. for 24-48hours and the colony counts were determined. The results are shown inTable 16.

TABLE 16 Soap Log 10 reduction from control* Softsoap ® + 0.15% TC 0.7Softsoap ® + 0.15% TC + 0.4% LG 7.93 oil + 0.2% Orange oil + 1% citricacid Softsoap ® + 0.4% LG oil + 0.2% 5.73 Orange oil + 1% citric acidSoftsoap ® + 0.15% TC + 0.4% C 5.50 oil + 0.2% Orange oil + 1% citricacid Softsoap ® + 0.4% C oil + 0.2% 4.39 Orange Oil + 1% citric acid*Log 10 reduction from control bacterial counts (ranges from 6.4 × 10⁷to 9.9 × 10⁷ cfu)

The above data demonstrate, among other things, that LGO-Cit+Triclosanwas found to be more effective than LGO-Cit and CO-Cit+Triclosan.

Example 16

The following experiments were performed to evaluate the effect ofadding various essential oil combinations, citric acid (0.5-0.7%), andSDA 40B alcohol (5.5%) to commercial triclosan-containing soaps such asDial® Soap and Softsoap® containing 0.15% Triclosan (“Dial® Soap-TC” and“Softsoap®-TC” respectively). A mixture of 0.1 ml of 10⁸ cfu/ml of S.aureus culture and 0.1 ml of bovine serum were placed in a sterileculture tube. 0.8 ml of the test soap formulation (or phosphate bufferedsaline as control) was added to the tube and vortexed for 30 seconds.9.0 ml DFN was added to the tube to neutralize the activity of the soap;this tube was then vortexed and serially diluted with DFN. 0.5 ml of thediluted solution was plated on trypticase soy agar plates, incubated at37° C. for 24-48 hours and the colony counts were determined. Theresults are shown in Table 17.

Dial® Soap TC-CO-Cit 7

Ingredients % W/W Cinnamon oil 0.5 Orange oil 0.2 Citric acid 1.0 SDA40B alcohol 5.5 Dial ® Soap-TC 92.8Dial® Soap TC-LOO-Cit 7

Ingredients % W/W Lemongrass oil 0.5 Orange oil 0.2 Citric acid 1.0 SDA40B alcohol 5.5 Dial Soap ®-TC 92.8Dial® Soap TC-LG-Cit 5

Ingredients % W/W Lemongrass oil 0.5 Citric acid 1.0 SDA 40B alcohol 5.5Dial ® Soap-TC 92.8Softsoap® TC-LGO-Cit 7

Ingredients % W/W Lemongrass oil 0.5 Orange oil 0.2 Citric acid 1.0 SDA40B alcohol 5.5 Softsoap ®-TC 92.7

TABLE 17 Soap Log10 reduction from control* Dial ® Soap TC 0.36 Dial ®Soap-TC-CO-Cit 7 3.9 Dial ® Soap-TC-LG-Cit 5 3.35 Dial ® Soap-TC-LGO-Cit7 5.09 Softsoap ®-TC 0.33 Softsoap ®-TC-LGO-Cit 7 4.66 Softsoap ®-TC +1% citric acid 2.64 *Log reduction from control bacterial counts (rangesfrom 2.0 × 10⁸ to 3.5 × 10⁸ cfu)

The above results indicate that citric acid was found to enhance theactivity of soaps containing triclosan; the combination of citric acidand essential oils was found to increase the antimicrobial activity ofsoap containing triclosan, and superior antimicrobial action wasassociated with a combination of citric acid, lemongrass and orangeoils, and triclosan.

Example 17

The pH of soaps containing 1% citric acid typically ranges between 3.2and 3.3. To determine whether or not the superior efficacy observed withthe combination of essential oils and citric acid is due to the acidicpH, certain EO/citric acid-containing soaps were adjusted to pH 6.0 with10 N sodium hydroxide and their antibacterial efficacy tested andcompared to the corresponding soaps without pH adjustment. For theevaluation of antimicrobial activity, a mixture of 0.1 ml of 10⁷ cfu/mlof S. aureus culture (ATCC #6538) and 0.1 ml of bovine serum were placedin a sterile culture tube. 0.8 ml of the test soap formulation was addedto the tube and vortexed for 30 seconds. 9.0 ml DFN was added to thetube to neutralize the activity of the soap; this tube was then vortexedand serially diluted with DFN. 0.5 ml of the diluted solution was platedon trypticase soy agar plates, incubated at 37° C. for 24-48 hours andthe colony counts were determined. The results are shown in Table 18.(“Softsoap®-TC” is Softsoap® containing 0.15 percent triclosan).

TABLE 18 Soap Log10 reduction from control* CO-Cit + Softsoap ®-TC pH3.25 3.9 CO-Cit + Softsoap ®-TC pH 6.0 3.25 CLGO-Cit + Softsoap ®-TC pH3.25 5.1 CLGO-Cit + Softsoap ®-TC pH 6.0 5.65 *Log 10 reduction fromcontrol bacterial counts (ranges from 1 × 10⁶ to 5 × 10⁶.)

Conclusion: The efficacy was similar at both pH values tested. Thisindicates that the superior activity of essential oils and citric acidobserved is not due to the acidic pH.

Example 18

Household cleansers were prepared comprising citric acid (1-2%),alcohol, and either (i) lemongrass oil; (ii) a combination of lemongrassoil and pine oil; (iii) a combination of lemongrass oil and orange oil;or (iv) a combination of pine oil and orange oil. The antimicrobialeffectiveness of these formulations was tested and compared tocommercial Pinesol® cleanser (containing 8.7 percent pine oil and otheringredients including detergent and other cleaning agents) as a control.

Stock solution of hard surface Disinfectant-LG-Cit 2:

Ingredients % (W/W) Lemongrass oil 2.0 Citric acid 20.0 SDA 40B alcohol76.5 Pluronic Surfactant L-61 0.5 Pluronic Surfactant F-127 0.5 PluronicSurfactant F-87 0.5Stock solution of hard surface Disinfectant-LGP-Cit 4

Ingredients % W/W Lemongrass oil 1.0 Pine oil 3.0 Citric acid 20.0 SDA40B alcohol 74.5 Pluronic Surfactant L-61 0.5 Pluronic Surfactant F-1270.5 Pluronic Surfactant F-87 0.5Stock solution of hard surface Disinfectant-P-Cit 5

Ingredients % W/W Pine oil 5.0 Citric acid 20.0 SDA 40B alcohol 73.5Pluronic Surfactant L-61 0.5 Pluronic Surfactant F-127 0.5 PluronicSurfactant F-87 0.5

After tenfold dilution of each stock solution the disinfectant containedthe following percentages (w/w) of each ingredient:

Surface Disinfectant-LG-Cit 2

-   -   0.2% Lemongrass oil+2% Citric acid+7.65% alcohol+0.15%        surfactants        Surface Disinfectant-LG-P-Cit 4    -   0.36% Pine oil+0.1% Lemongrass oil+2% Citric acid+7.45%        alcohol+0.15% Surfactants        Surface Disinfectant-P-Cit 5    -   0.5% Pine oil+2% Citric acid+7.45% alcohol+0.15% surfactants.

To prepare the solution of Pinesol® to serve as control, as per themanufacturer's instruction, 6 ml of the Pinesol® containing 8.5% pineoil was diluted to 100 ml. This diluted sample contained 0.52% pine oil.

To test the antimicrobial activity, 0.1 ml of culture containingapproximately 1×10⁷ colony forming units (“cfu”) of S. aureus permilliliter was spread evenly on the surface of 2.5×11 cm² tiles using aglass rod and left at room temperature for 10 minutes to dry. After 10minutes 0.3 ml of the diluted surface disinfectant was spread evenly onthe tiles with a sterile glass rod and left for another 10 minutes todry. The tiles were rinsed with 9.6 ml of inactivating medium (BPBNS),which was collected for testing. The collected medium was seriallydiluted and 0.5 ml was plated onto TSA plates and incubated at 37° C.for 18-24 hours. The colonies on the plates were counted and the valuesconverted to log₁₀.

TABLE 19 Log₁₀ reduction from control bacterial counts* DisinfectantDisinfectant Disinfectant Organism LG-Cit LGP-Cit P-Cit Pinesol S.aureus 3.56 1.89 0.81 2.4 *Log 10 reduction from control bacterialcounts (ranges from 1 × 10⁶-5 × 10⁶)

These data indicate that a surface cleaner containing 0.2% LG oil and2.0% citric acid was found to be considerably more effective than acleaner containing 0.5% pine oil and 2% citric acid as well ascommercial Pinesol® Surface cleaner containing 0.52% pine oil. Thecleanser containing 0.3% pine oil+0.1% LG oil+2% citric acid was alsofound to be more effective than the one containing 0.5% pine oil and 2%citric acid.

Example 19

The following stock solution was prepared:

Stock Solution of hard surface Disinfectant-PO-Cit 7

Ingredient % W/W Pine oil 5.0 Orange oil 2.0 Citric acid 10 SDA 40Balcohol 53.5 Pluronic Surfactant L-61 0.5 Pluronic Surfactant F-127 0.5Pluronic Surfactant F-87 0.5

7.2% of the stock hard disinfectant was diluted with water to 100%before use. This diluted samples contained the following concentrationsof active ingredients:

Surface Disinfectant-P-Cit 7

-   -   0.5% Pine oil+0.2% Orange oil+1% Citric acid+5.35% alcohol+0.15%        Surfactants        The following stock solution was prepared:        Stock Solution of hard surface Disinfectant-LGO-Cit 7

Ingredient % W/W Lemongrass oil 5.0 Orange oil 2.0 Citric acid 10 SDA40B alcohol 53.5 Pluronic Surfactant L-61 0.5 Pluronic Surfactant F-1270.5 Pluronic Surfactant F-87 0.5

7.2% of the stock hard disinfectant was diluted with water to 100%before use. This diluted samples contained the following concentrationsof active ingredients:

Surface Disinfectant-LGO-Cit 7

-   -   0.5% LG oil+0.2% Orange oil+1% Citric acid+5.35% alcohol+0.15%        Surfactants

The method used in Example 18 was used to test antimicrobial activity.

TABLE 20 S. aureus P. aeruginosa E. coli Log 10 reduction in 0.6 5.1 5.1bacteria-PO-Cit 7 Log 10 reduction in 5.9 4.8 5.09 bacteria-LGO-Cit 7*Log₁₀ reduction from control bacterial counts (ranges from 1 × 10⁶-5 ×10⁶)

The foregoing data indicate that LGO-Cit is effective against bothgram-positive and gram-negative organisms while PO-Cit is not veryeffective against the gram-positive organism S. aureus.

Example 20

The following experiments were carried out using either soap or surfacedisinfectants containing the EO(s)/citric acid combinations indicated.The test organism used was Candida albicans.

Where soap was employed, the following method was used. A mixture of 0.1ml of 10⁷ cfu/ml of C. albicans culture and 0.1 ml of bovine serum wereplaced in a sterile culture tube. 0.8 ml of the test soap formulationwas added to the tube and vortexed for 30 seconds. 9.0 ml DFN was addedto the tube to neutralize the activity of the soap; this tube was thenvortexed and serially diluted with DFN. 0.5 ml of the diluted solutionwas plated on trypticase soy agar plates, incubated at 37° C. for 24-48hours and the colony counts were determined. The results, showing 30second kill activity, are shown in Table 21.

Where surface disinfectant was employed, the following method was used.0.1 ml of culture containing approximately 1×10⁷ colony forming units(“cfu”) of C. albicans per milliliter was spread evenly on the surfaceof 2.5×11 cm² tiles using a glass rod and left at room temperature for10 minutes to dry. After 10 minutes 0.3 ml of the diluted surfacedisinfectant was spread evenly on the tiles with a sterile glass rod andleft for another 10 minutes to dry. The tiles were rinsed with 9.6 ml ofinactivating medium (BPBNS), which was collected for testing. Thecollected medium was serially diluted and 0.5 ml was plated onto TSAplates and incubated at 37° C. for 18-24 hours. The colonies on theplates were counted and the values converted to log₁₀.

TABLE 21 Formulation Log10 reduction from control* CO-Cit 6 Soap 1.02LGO-Cit 6 Soap 1.27 CO-Cit 7 Surface Disinfectant 5.2 LGO-Cit 7 SurfaceDisinfectant 4.81 *Control counts range from 1 × 10⁶ to 5 × 10⁶

These results show that CO groups and LGO groups show similar activityagainst C. albicans.

Example 21

Evaluation of the rapid antibacterial activity of various soapformulations was performed as follows.

Method of evaluation of rapidity of kill of soaps. The rapidantimicrobial efficacy of the soaps containing LG and variouscombinations were tested as follows. A mixture of 0.1 ml of 10⁹ cfu/mlof bacterial cultures and 0.1 ml of bovine serum was placed in a sterileculture tube. 0.8 ml of the test soap formulation was added to the tubeand vortexed for 30 seconds. 9.0 ml drug neutralizing fluid (DNF) wasadded to the tube to neutralize the activity of the soap, this tube wasvortexed and serially diluted with DNF. 0.5 ml of the diluted solutionwas plated on trypticase soy agar plates, incubated at 37° C. for 24-48hours, and the colony counts were determined. The soap base withoutessential oils, citric acid, secondary alcohol and Incroquat containingthe culture were also tested. PBS was used as the control. LG-O-Cit 5comprises 0.3 percent (weight/weight) lemongrass oil, 0.3 percent(weight/weight) orange oil, 1.0 percent (weight/weight) citric acid, 1.0percent (weight/weight) 2-phenoxyethanol and 15 percent (weight/weight)SDA 40B alcohol. LG-O-Cit 4 comprises 0.3 percent (weight/weight)lemongrass oil, 0.1 percent (weight/weight) orange oil, 1.0 percent(weight/weight) citric acid, 1.0 percent (weight/weight)2-phenoxyethanol and 15 percent (weight/weight) SDA 40B alcohol. Theamount of alkanediol, where present, is 0.3 percent (weight/weight). Thecomplete formulations for the soaps specified are set forth in section4.6, above. The results are shown in Table 22 below.

TABLE 22 Enhancement of the antibacterial activity of LG-0-Citcomposition by 0.3% of alkanediols (Test Organism: S. aureus) Soapformulations Log10 reduction from control Base 1.8 LG-O-Cit 5 3.7 1,2decanediol (0.3%) 0.6 LG-O-Cit 5 + 1,2 decanediol 4.5 LG-O-Cit 4 3.6LG-O-Cit 4 + 1,2 decanediol 4.8 LG-O-Cit 4 + 1,2 dodecanediol 4.5LG-O-Cit 4 + 1,2 Tetradecanediol 4.5 *Log₁₀ reduction from controlbacterial counts (ranges from 2 × 10⁸-5 × 10⁸)

The results shown in Table 22 indicate that the alkanediols testedenhanced the antibacterial activity of LG+O oil and citric aciddisinfectant composition at a concentration of 0.3 percent(weight/weight).

Example 22

The method described in Section 25, above, was used to evaluate theantibacterial activity of soap formulations comprising 0.5 percent ofalkanediols. LG-O-Cit 4A comprises 0.3 percent (weight/weight)lemongrass oil, 0.1 percent (weight/weight) orange oil, 1.0 percent(weight/weight) citric acid, 1.0 percent (weight/weight)2-phenoxyethanol and 17 percent (weight/weight) SDA 40B alcohol. Theamount of alkanediol, where present, is 0.5 percent (weight/weight). Thecomplete formulations for the soaps specified are set forth in section4.6, above. The results are shown in Table 23 below.

TABLE 23 Enhancement of the antibacterial activity of LG-O-Cit AComposition by 0.5% of alkanediols Rapid antimicrobial activity (30second kill) (Test Organism: S. aureus) Soap formulations Log 10reduction from control Base 0.8 LG-0-Cit 4A 4.1 1,2 decanediol (0.5%)1.4 LG-O-Cit 4A + 1,2 decanediol 6.0 LG-O-Cit 4A + 1,2 dodecanediol 6.1LG-O-Cit 4A + 1,12 dodecanediol 6.0 LG-O-Cit 4A + 1,2 Tetradecanediol6.0 LG-O-Cit4A + 0.25% 1,2 decanediol + 6.0 0.25% 1,12 DodecanediolCn-O-Cit4A 3.7 Cn-O-Cit4A + 1,2 decanediol 4.9 (pH of all the soapsranged from 4.5-4.6) *Log₁₀ reduction from control bacterial counts(ranges from 2 × 10⁸-5 × 10⁸)

The results shown in Table 23 indicate that alkanediols at 0.5%concentration showed significant enhancement of the antibacterialactivity of LG+O oil+citric acid or Cn+O oil and citric aciddisinfectant composition.

Example 23

To evaluate the effect of decanediol on the antibacterial activity ofcitric acid or citric acid in combination with essential oils, thefollowing experiments were performed. The compounds indicated below wereincorporated into Softsoap™ lacking triclosan and the activity wasevaluated. Activity was measured as described in Section 25, Example 22.The results are shown in Table 24.

TABLE 24 Rapid antimicrobial activity (30 second kill) (Test Organism:S. aureus) Soap formulations (% w/w) Log₁₀ reduction from control PlainSoftsoap ® 0.2 0.5 decanediol 1.4 1.0 citric acid 1.3 0.5 decanediol +1.0 citric acid 6.5 0.3 + 0.1 LG − O 0.1 0.5 decanediol + 1.0 citricacid + 7.0 0.3 + 0.1 LG + O 0.25 decanediol + 0.5 citric acid 4.7 0.15 +0.06 LG + O 0.1 0.25 decanediol + 0.5 citric acid + 5.6 0.15 + 0.06 LG +O *Log₁₀ reduction from PBS (control) bacterial counts (ranges from 7 ×10⁷-1 × 10⁸)

The results shown in Table 24 indicate that decanediol and citric acidexhibit synergistic activity, and that further addition of essential oilenhances the activity. The use of decanediol+citric acid+essential oilsin soap even at low concentrations was found to show superiorantibacterial activity.

Example 24

To determine the effect of LG-O-Cit-1,2 decanediol on the antibacterialactivity of triclosan-containing soap, the following experiments wereperformed.

Dial® soap containing 0.15% triclosan (Dial-T Soap) was used for thistest. The following formulation was prepared. The antibacterial activitywas then tested using the method set forth in Section 25, Example 21.The results are shown in Table 25.

Dial®-T Soap Containing LG-O-Cit 4 and 0.5% 1,2 decanediol

Ingredient Percentage (w/w) Dial ®-T soap 90.0 SDA 40B 8.1 Lemongrassoil 0.3 Orange oil 0.1 Citric acid 1.0 1,2 decanediol 0.5Original pH was 3.2 pH adjusted to 4.5 with 10.N NaOH

TABLE 25 Enhancement of the activity of Triclosan by LG-0-Cit- 1,2Decanediol Rapid antimicrobial activity (30 second kill) (Test Organism:S. aureus) Soap formulations Log₁₀ reduction from control Dial ®-T soap0.7 Dial ®-T Soap + LG-0-Cit 4 5.5 Dial ®-T Soap + LG-O-Cit4- 8.0 0.5%1,2 decanediol *Log₁₀ reduction from control bacterial counts (rangesfrom 2 × 10⁸-5 × 10⁸)

The foregoing results indicate that decanediol enhances the activity ofDial®-T Soap+LG-O-Cit 4.

Example 25

The antibacterial activity of LG-O-CitA-D-T lotion, having the followingformulation, was tested in a pigskin model.

Constituent % (w/w) Water 65.6 UCARE JR-30M 0.25 POLYOX WSR-205 0.1Incroquat TMS Behenyl 2.0 Isopropyl myristate 1.0 Acetulan 1.0 Vitamin E0.2 Zinc stearate 0.2 Polawax NF 2.75 Glycerine 2.0 Allantoin 0.2Dimethicone copolyol (Q2-5220) 2.5 Citric acid 1.0 1,2 decanediol 0.5Tocopheryl acetate 0.5 Glyceryl stearate (Arlacel 165) 1.0 Butyleneglycol 3.0 SDA 40B 15.0 Lemongrass oil 0.5 Tea tree oil 0.5 Orange oil0.1 1,2 Decanediol (SymClairol) 0.5 Triclosan 0.3 (pH adjusted to4.5-5.0)

The pigskin model assay was as follows. Six sets of 3×3 cm² pig skineach mounted on a petriplate were rinsed in 70% isopropanol and airdried. One piece of the pair was contaminated with 30 μl of 10⁸ cfu ofMRSA culture; the two pieces were then rubbed against each other for 30seconds and left at 37° C. to dry for one hour. Three pairs were usedfor control and another three pairs were used for the test, which was asfollows.

To one piece of the pair from the control, 0.1 gm of placebo cream (sameas LG-O-Cit4-D (above) without SDA 40B, lemongrass oil, tea tree oil,orange oil, 1,2 decanediol (SymClairol) was applied, rubbed against theother piece for 15 seconds and left at 37° C. for 1 hour. The sameprocedure was repeated with the test skins in which LG-O-CitA-D-T wasapplied. Following this, 0.2 ml dilution media (DM) was added to oneskin piece and both pieces rubbed again for 15 seconds. The survivingorganisms were recovered from the skin by rinsing each piece with 9.9 mlof DM. The washing fluid from both pieces was collected in one petridish, mixed and transferred to a culture tube from which further serialdilutions were made. Aliquots from the dilutions were plated on TSAplates and incubated for 24-48 hours at 37° C. before colony counts(baseline counts) were determined. The results are shown in Table 26.

TABLE 26 Reduction of Bacterial growth 1 hour post treatment Bacterialcounts Log₁₀ reduction from Treatment cream (cfu/skin) control countsPBS 2.2 × 10⁶ — Placebo cream (control) 2.0 × 10⁶ — LG-O-Cit A-D-TLotion 7.6 × 10³ 2.37

Example 26

The antibacterial activity of preservative compositions was evaluated.

Preservative Composition A

Ingredients % (w/w) Lemongrass oil 10 Farnesol 10 Orange oil 5 Lacticacid 7 1,2 decanediol 7 SDA 40B alcohol 61Preservative Composition B

Ingredients % (w/w) Lemongrass oil 15 Farnesol 15 Orange oil 10 Lacticacid 10 SDA 40B alcohol 50Preservative Composition C

Ingredients % (w/w) Farnesol 17 Citric acid 7 1,2 decanediol 7 SDA 40Balcohol 69Preservative Composition D

Ingredients % (w/w) Lemongrass oil 15 Orange oil 5 Lactic acid 10 1,2decanediol 20 1,2 Octanediol 20 SDA 40B alcohol 30Preservative Composition E

Ingredients % (w/w) Lemongrass oil 15 Orange oil 5 Lactic acid 10 1,2Octanediol 40 SDA 40B alcohol 30

The pH of these solutions are adjusted to 5.0. 0.5-5.0% of thesepreservatives can be used in various formulations.

Evaluation of the Preservative efficacy of Composition A and B. Thefollowing cream base was prepared to incorporate the preservative beforetesting.

Ingredient Percentage (w/w) Water 70.24 UCARE JR-40 0.3 Polawax 3.0Incroquat Behenyl TMS 3.0 Petroleum jelly 5.0 Stearyl alcohol 7.0Propylene glycol 2.0 Isopropyl myristate 4.0 Sorbitan oleate 2.0Polyoxyl 40 stearate 2.0

An overnight culture of bacteria grown in Trypticase Soy Broth (TSB) wasdiluted with TSB to obtain 10⁸ CFU organism/ml. For the test samples, 2%of the preservative was added to 10 grams of the cream and mixed well.From this sample, 1 gram aliquots were placed into 10 ml sterile plasticculture tubes and 0.1 ml (100 microliters) of the test inoculum wasadded and vortexed until uniformly blended. The tubes were then placedinto incubators at 37° C. All tubes were incubated for a total of 3days. At the end of the incubation period 9.0 ml of ButterfieldPhosphate Buffered solution with neutralizer was added to the incubatedcultured sample and vortexed until completely mixed. The samples wereserially diluted and then plated in Trypticase soy agar (TSA). Theplates were incubated at 37° C. temperature for 24-48 hours and thecounts were read. The results are shown in Table 27, below.

TABLE 27 Log₁₀ Reduction from control growth S. aureus P. aeruginosaControl — — Preserv A 7.8 8.0 Preserv B 6.7 4.0 *Control growth for S.aureus and P aeruginosa are 6.5 × 10⁸ and 1 × 10⁸ cfu/gm respectively.

Example 27

The following experiments were performed to evaluate wound dressingsimpregnated with essential oils, citric acid and decanediol.

Antimicrobial Impregnation Solution

Ingredients % (w/w) Lemongrass oil 0.3 Orange oil 0.1 Tea tree oil 0.5Calendula oil 0.5 Citric acid 1.0 Olive oil 5.0 Propylene glycol 10Decanediol 0.5 SDA 40B alcohol 51.7 UCARE JR-30 0.4 Water 30.0

Antimicrobial/Anti-Inflammatory Impregnation Solution

Ingredients % (w/w) Lemongrass oil 0.3 Orange oil 0.1 Tea tree oil 0.5Calendula oil 0.5 Citric acid 1.0 Olive oil 5.0 Propylene glycol 10Decanediol 0.5 SDA 40B alcohol 51.0 UCARE JR-30 0.4 Curcumin 0.3 Water29.7

Wound dressings (Dukal non-adherent pads) were dipped into theantimicrobial impregnation solution and dried for 24 hours. Thedressings were cut into 1 cm² pieces and the zones of inhibition againstvarious organisms were determined.

Zones of inhibition test. A 1×1 cm² piece of each dressing was placed ona Trypticase soy agar plate seeded on the surface with 0.3 mL of 10⁸colony forming units (CFU/mL) of the test organism. The plates wereincubated at 37° C. for 24 hours. The zone of inhibition around thecatheter segments, excluding the diameter of patch, was measured. Theresults are shown in Table 28.

TABLE 28 Organism Zone of inhibition (mm) S. aureus 7.0 MRSA 8.0 P.aeruginosa 5.0 C. albicans 9.0

Various patent and non-patent publications are cited herein, thecontents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentireties.

We claim:
 1. A topical antimicrobial skin disinfectant composition,comprising: (i) (a) basil oil at a concentration between about 0.1 and0.25 percent wt/wt, (b) orange oil at a concentration between about 0.1and 0.25 percent wt/wt, and (c) lemon oil at a concentration betweenabout 0.1 and 0.5 percent wt/wt; (ii) a fruit acid selected from thegroup consisting of citric acid and lactic acid at a concentrationbetween about 0.125 and 1.0 percent wt/wt; (iii) a non-alkanediolalcohol solvent at a concentration between about 5.0 and 20 percentwt/wt selected from the group consisting of ethanol, isopropanol, andcombinations thereof; and (iv) an alkanediol at a concentration betweenabout 0.3 and 1.0 percent wt/wt selected from the group consisting ofoctanediol, decanediol, and combinations thereof.
 2. The topicalantimicrobial skin disinfectant composition of claim 1, furthercomprising chlorhexidine digluconate at a concentration between about0.05 and 2.0 percent wt/wt.
 3. The topical antimicrobial skindisinfectant composition of claim 1, wherein the fruit acid is citricacid.
 4. The topical antimicrobial skin disinfectant composition ofclaim 1, wherein the topical antimicrobial skin disinfectant compositionis formulated as a personal care product selected from the groupconsisting of a bar soap, a liquid hand soap, a hand sanitizer, a bodywash, an acne treatment, a shampoo, a hair conditioner, a cosmetic, adeodorant, a body lotion, a hand cream, a topical cream, an aftershavelotion, a skin toner, a sunscreen lotion, a baby cleansing wipe, and adiaper cream.
 5. The topical antimicrobial skin disinfectant compositionof claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises one or more thanone component selected from the group consisting of emollient,thickening agent, humectant, silicone polymer, and hydrogel.
 6. Atopical antimicrobial skin disinfectant composition, comprising (i) (a)basil oil at a concentration between about 0.1 and 0.25 percent wt/wt,(b) orange oil at a concentration between about 0.1 and 0.25 percentwt/wt, and (c) lemon oil at a concentration between about 0.1 and 0.5percent wt/wt; (ii) a fruit acid selected from the group consisting ofcitric acid and lactic acid at a concentration between about 0.125 and 2percent wt/wt; (iii) a non-alkanediol alcohol solvent at a concentrationbetween about 5.0 and 20 percent wt/wt; and (iv) an alkanediol at aconcentration between about 0.3 and 1.0 percent wt/wt, wherein thenon-alkanediol of (iii) is an aliphatic alcohol selected from the groupconsisting of ethanol, isopropanol, and combinations thereof and whereinthe alkanediol is selected from the group consisting of: octanediol,1,2-decanediol, and 1,10-decanediol.
 7. The topical antimicrobial skindisinfectant of claim 6, further comprising an aromatic alcohol selectedfrom the group consisting of phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol,1-phenoxy-2-propanol, and phenethyl alcohol or combinations thereof at aconcentration between 0.5 and 5 percent wt/wt (weight/weight).
 8. Thetopical antimicrobial skin disinfectant of claim 6, wherein theconcentrations of basil oil, orange oil and lemon oil comprise: (a)basil oil at a concentration of 0.1 percent wt/wt, orange oil at aconcentration of 0.2 percent wt/wt, and lemon oil at a concentration of0.2 percent wt/wt; (b) basil oil at a concentration between about 0.1and 0.25 percent wt/wt, orange oil at a concentration between about 0.1and 0.25 percent wt/wt, and lemon oil at a concentration between about0.1 and 0.5 percent wt/wt; or (c) basil oil at a concentration of 0.1percent wt/wt, orange oil at a concentration of 0.2 percent wt/wt, andlemon oil at a concentration of 0.2 percent wt/wt.